Every week, Femail asks two singletons to report back from their blind date.
This week, it was Kelly and Martyn’s turn to see if there was a spark between them.
Read on to find out what happened…
Kelly, 49
Kelly says she somehow ended up with two forks in her hands, instead of a knife and fork, to eat her steak with
Dating past
I’ve known my children’s father for 20 years and, though we split 16 years ago, I’ve stuck to flings since.
Pre-date nerves?
Yes, totally! I get social anxiety but in a positive way. My daughter did a good job of calming me down though.
First impressions?
Good, he turned up with a bunch of autumnal flowers.
Martyn has shaggy, blond hair and had blue nail varnish on, I couldn’t stop looking at it. I learned it’s all part of his persona for working with bands. As a roadie, he’s got eccentric tendencies.
Easy to talk to?
Yes, Martyn’s been all over the world so we spoke about his travels. But he is just out of a relationship. When I told my daughter, she warned me that’s a red flag. He also said he wants to travel for his job and have someone waiting at home for him.
I talked a lot about my children. The date helped me realise they’re at the forefront of my mind. I admit being guarded, so I can see it’ll be difficult for me to let someone new into our world.
Embarrassing moments?
Yes, I somehow ended up with two forks in my hands, instead of a knife and fork, to eat my steak with. Martyn didn’t notice – he’s a wine snob so was focused on the contents of his glass.
Did sparks fly?
Not at all. Martyn did say he had booked a hotel for the night. I think he was open to me joining him there but that was never going to happen. If he’d have outright mentioned sex, I would have got up and left.
See him again?
No, Martyn’s a free bird and might never grow up. He needs someone devoted to him and that isn’t me. I can’t fault his manners though – he pulled my chair out for me and let me order first.
What do you think he thought of you?
Quite girly, maybe? I think he’ll say I am closed off. I didn’t make much eye contact with him either.
Would your friends and family like him?
No. Martyn is just that bit too scruffy and hippyish for them.
Martyn, 41
Martyn said Kelly gave off the vibes that she isn’t serious about a relationship
Dating past?
My job is difficult when it comes to a relationship. The apps don’t work when you’re constantly on the road. I met my ex on tour in Berlin but things just didn’t work out.
Anyone I date needs to accept my job is more than a way to earn a living, it’s a lifestyle.
Pre-date nerves?
No, I don’t think so. I’m used to going to strange places and meeting new people. I viewed it as an exciting prospect.
First impressions?
I spotted Kelly and was impressed. She is slim and was wearing a pink dress. Kelly isn’t someone I’d usually like – she’s a fair bit older than me – but I remained open-minded.
Easy to talk to?
Yes. Most of the chat was about our travels. We talked a bit about our tattoos and what they represent – although I can’t remember much about hers.
We didn’t talk about her past relationships or what she’s looking for, which made me think Kelly wasn’t there for a date but more for the experience.
Embarrassing moments?
Not really. We did joke about trying to work out if any of our fellow diners were also on a date.
Did sparks fly?
We got on, but Kelly gave off the vibes that she isn’t serious about a relationship. I wanted to meet someone so it was a bit frustrating. When I suggested we continue our date, she said she had to leave to pick up her daughter – but she’s 18, for goodness sake! Kelly specified meeting a younger man, but I suspect she needs to reframe her expectations.
See her again?
Yes I’d happily go out for a drink with Kelly, but we didn’t exchange numbers. She’s got a high-flying job and children whose lives she’s very involved with; I’m not sure she has room for anyone else.
What do you think she thought of you?
The jury is out. I suspect I got some brownie points for arriving with a bouquet. She did say it was nice to be with someone who talked more than her.
Would your friends like her?
I can’t see why not. Kelly is a well-travelled woman with a lot to say.
Kelly’s Verdict: 4/10
Liked? The flowers were a lovely gesture.
Regrets? I wish I’d relaxed.
Coffee or cab? Cab.
Martyn’s Verdict: 6/10
Liked? She was easy to speak to.
Regrets? Not at all.
Coffee or cab? Coffee.
