JACKIE, 70
Single for two years, with a grown-up son and daughter.
Dating Past
I was married for 20 years, then on my own for eight. After a ten-year relationship ended a decade ago, I’ve had a more casual eight-year one which ended in 2022. I haven’t dated much since then.
Pre-Date Nerves?
A tiny bit, but I framed it to myself that my match would be as nervous as me.
Jackie (pictured), 70, has been single for two years and has a grown-up son and daughter. She’s looking to meet someone fun who’s semi-retired and keeps fit
First Impressions?
As soon as I saw Jeff walking to our table, I felt comfortable. He was well-dressed and had a lovely smile. We greeted one another with a kiss on each cheek and I knew we’d get on.
Easy To Talk To?
We spent three hours together, so I’d say so. We’re both total foodies — I’m half Italian and love to cook, whereas Jeff doesn’t cook but assured me he likes to eat! He’s also well-travelled and is often away in his camper van. I’ve always wanted to tour France in one.
When he walked in I just knew. I can’t wait to see him again
Neither of us wants to be on our own for the rest of our lives. We want someone to share special moments with, whether it’s a weekend away or just a cup of tea.
Jeff is a recent widower. I think it’s wonderful he’s getting out there.
Embarrassing Moments?
No, we were so into our conversation we were oblivious to what went on around us.
Did Sparks Fly?
Yes, I knew straight away. Jeff is the first man I have met in years I have really liked. When he walked in, I just ‘knew’. You don’t flirt at this age, though; you don’t need to. I appreciated that Jeff isn’t the kind of man to resort to smutty innuendoes.
Jackie, a dance teacher and property renovator, found it easy to talk to Jeff and is looking forward to seeing him again
See him again?
Yes. As we left, Jeff said he’d like to see me again, and gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek. He sent me a text checking I’d got home OK and said he can’t wait to see me again. I can’t wait either.
What do you think he thought of you?
I assumed he liked me because we got along so well.
Would your family and friends like him?
Jeff is easy-going, charming and engaging. There is nothing not to like about him.
JEFF, 66
Widower, bereaved seven months ago. Four children.
Dating Past
I’ve been married twice and was with my late wife for 28 years. She wanted me to find someone else. Still, I did research whether it was ‘too soon’, because some women tell me I should wait two years. I get told I’m a catch — I just wish someone would catch me!
Pre-Date Nerves?
No, but I thought I’d be a shaking mess afterwards wondering if I’d put my foot in it. My career was in sales, so I’m quite gregarious.
Jeff (pictured), 66, is a widower with four children. He’s looking to meet someone feminine, gentle, genuine and pretty
First Impressions?
I was impressed. Jackie is a vivacious, pretty blonde who greeted me with a smile. Being well-travelled people, we went in for a kiss on each cheek.
Easy To Talk To?
Jackie is an educated lady who shares my passion for travel. My career was in the car industry, supplying parts for Formula 1 cars, and Jackie’s son recently hosted guests in Monaco for the Grand Prix. So we had plenty to talk about.
In the nicest way, Jackie is definitely an Uptown Girl
Embarrassing Moments?
No, apart from my main course arriving before Jackie had finished her starter. I didn’t make a big deal about it because I didn’t want to embarrass her.
Did Sparks Fly?
While it’s early days, the chemistry between us was sparklingly apparent towards the end of the date. I’m quite forward and asked Jackie if I could see her again. Fortunately, she said she’d like to see me, too. When she gave me her number, I immediately called it to check I’d taken it down correctly.
See her again?
Yes, I’d very much like to. I’m in Turkey for ten days and Jackie is away, too. I like the fact I’ll have a tan when I next see her.
Jeff, who works part-time in the supercar industry, is thrilled that Jackie is equally keen to get together again
What do you think she thought of you?
I couldn’t begin to say. If I’m honest, she’s more upmarket than I’m used to. Jackie is, and I mean this in the nicest sense, (to quote Billy Joel) an Uptown Girl! I wouldn’t want her to be offended by the remark but she’s an educated woman who’s done well for herself.
Would your friends like her?
There’s no reason for them not to. She’s a friendly, warm woman.
JACKIE’S VERDICT: 10/10
LIKED? Jeff!
REGRETS? Absolutely none.
COFFEE OR CAB? Coffee.
JEFF’S VERDICT: 10/10
LIKED? Ease of conversation with Jackie.
REGRETS? The service.
COFFEE OR CAB? Coffee.
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