Blind date: Philip and Carol

Philip and Carol arrived early and caught each other’s eye with a smile. Philip had dared to hope for reciprocated love at first sight; Carol wanted an enjoyable evening, a tasty meal and great conversation. She stood out to him as warm, accomplished and quirky, with a little streak of pink in her hair, while Carol noticed his kind face and welcoming manner.

The conversation ranged widely: Andy Burnham, Elvis Costello, dogs, U3A groups, trains to Italy, the deficiencies of dating apps and the pointlessness of shyness in later life. Carol also steered discussion towards what life looks like as we get older, different careers and Ian McKellen.

There were no real awkward moments — Carol sent her G&T flying, which was more funny than embarrassing — and both praised each other’s table manners; Philip even checked before ordering steak tartare and was happy to share his salad. They left positive impressions.

blind date, philip, carol, dating apps, g&t, steak tartare, table manners, ian mckellen, andy burnham, elvis costello