Find out if Kate and Simon click during this week’s Blind Date

Kate, 64

Vital statistics

Single for two years, with two adult children.

Current role

Sales advisor for planned homes.

Would love to meet

Someone who is sociable, has a good sense of humor and is proud of his appearance

Dating past

I was in a relationship for nine years, which ended in September 2021. I’m over my ex now, so I’m looking forward to meeting someone. Still, I’m already thinking about what will happen a year from now if something goes wrong.

Pre-date nerves?

Not at all. I knew my date liked to walk and that really appealed to me. He’s also seven years younger than me, which is nice.

First impression?

Simon was smaller than I expected. He had a cap on, and I don’t like hats. But he was smartly dressed and his greeting was warm as we kissed each other on the cheek. I already enjoyed a glass of Veuve Clicquot.

Easy to talk to?

Yes, we had a good laugh. Simon lives in a cottage, which sounded nice, and he is involved in his local theater group. We talked about my children, who are both in the music business, and about my granddaughter, who is almost two years old.

We both love music from the seventies and eighties. Simon showed me a photo of him dressed as Robert Smith, the lead singer of The Cure. He was convinced I wouldn’t know who he was, but I’m not that old yet!

We were talking about zodiac signs and when Simon told me he’s a Taurus, “Oh God, just like my ex!” flew out of my mouth.

Embarrassing moments?

Not really. Although I went to the toilet and when I came back Simon was talking to the girl at the next table and telling her we had a date.

Did sparks fly?

I just didn’t find Simon attractive because I prefer a man with a larger build and more muscles. I need a hero, a strong man, and that’s not Simon. He’s good company, but I can’t imagine kissing him.

Will you see him again?

No. AFTER a mix-up with our trains we parted ways rather abruptly. But if Simon had asked for my number, I wouldn’t have had the heart to say, “No, I don’t like you.” I would have let him down with, “I’m not ready for a relationship yet” (even though I am).

What do you think he thought of you?

I don’t want to sound grand, but I think he liked me. He wanted to see me again. It’s just a shame I didn’t find him attractive.

Would your friends and family like it?

My friends would say Simon is nice, but ‘not for you, Kate’. Then again, I’m still single, so maybe I should give guys like Simon a chance.

Simon, 57

Vital statistics

Divorced, single for three and a half years, no children.

Current role

Owner of a mobile cinema.

Would meet

An outgoing, tactile, funny lady who loves walking. In other words: Julia Bradbury.

Dating history

My seven-year marriage ended in 2020, when we had no children yet. She preferred a dog, but that was not practical in our house with an open garden. Since then, I have averaged four dates a year, but I have never made it to a second date because many women ghost me.

Pre-date nerves?

No, although I do talk a lot. The only thing I was concerned about during my race is that she likes open water swimming – I don’t even like a cold shower.

First impression?

Kate looked beautiful in a sleeveless dress and had striking blonde hair. My ex-wife and other girlfriends were all brunettes because that’s what lights my fire. That said, Kate’s overall appeal was striking.

Easy to talk to?

We are both talkative. Kate talked a lot about her family. Her children are both professional drum and bass DJs. I was impressed that Kate has sung in several tribute acts, including as Shania Twain. And I think she was impressed that I had recently completed the 15 mile Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge.

Embarrassing moments?

We thought we were on the same train home, but discovered at the last minute that our tickets were for different lines. I had three minutes to catch mine, so I gave her an awkward goodbye hug without getting her number.

Did sparks fly?

I’m not good at flirting, so when Kate sent me signals, I didn’t pick up on them. She should have held my hand and told me she likes me.

There was no physical contact, apart from the goodbye kiss on the cheek. Kate is slim, but I didn’t like her as much as I would have liked.

Will you see her again?

I would say yes to see how it goes because after a second date I would be more confident. I felt that the age difference could be a hurdle for her, and it was for me too. I don’t mind dating someone younger, but every year older is a step further, and after four years it becomes a real leap.

What do you think she thought of you?

I hope she thought I was charming. Her crush is Tom Cruise, but she said I reminded her of his nerdy Mission: Impossible sidekick Simon Pegg instead. In any case, I consider that a compliment!

Would your family like her?

My parents want any woman who makes me happy. They would be somewhat surprised that I had found someone.

Kate’s rating: 8/10

Liked it?

The conversation flowed.

Regret?

Not at all.

Coffee or taxi?

Cab.

Simon’s rating: 7/10

Liked it?

Kate is bubbly.

Regret?

My truffles were disappointing.

Coffee or taxi?

Coffee.