Find out if Kate and Simon hit it off on this week’s Blind Date

• Every week, FEMAIL asks two singletons to report back from their blind date
• Would you like us to find you a date? Are you a singleton, or is there someone you’d like to send on a blind date? Email: [email protected] 

Kate, 64

Vital statistics

Single for two years, with two adult children.

Current role

Sales adviser for off-plan homes.

Would like to meet

Someone sociable with a good sense of humour who takes pride in his appearance

Dating past

I was in a relationship for nine years, which ended in September 2021. I’m now over my ex, so I’m excited about meeting someone. Still, I’m already thinking about what happens a year down the line if things go wrong.

Kate (pictured), 64, was in a relationship for nine years with her ex, which ended in September 2021

Pre-date nerves?

Not at all. I knew my date enjoyed walking and that was a big appeal. He’s also seven years younger than me, which is fun.

First impressions?

Simon was shorter than I’d expected. He had a cap on, and I don’t like hats. But he was smartly dressed and his greeting was a warm one as we kissed one another on the cheek. I was already enjoying a glass of Veuve Clicquot.

Easy to talk to?

Yes, we laughed quite a bit. Simon lives in a cottage, which sounded nice, and he’s involved in his local theatre group. We talked about my children, who are both in the music business, and my granddaughter, who is nearly two years old.

We’re both into 1970s and 1980s music. Simon showed me a picture of him dressed up as Robert Smith, the lead singer from The Cure. He was convinced I wouldn’t know who he was, but I’m not that old!

We mentioned star signs and when Simon told me he’s a Taurus, ‘Oh God, like my ex!’ flew out of my mouth.

Embarrassing moments?

Not really. Although I nipped to the loo and found Simon talking to the girl at the next table when I got back, telling her we were on a date.

Did sparks fly?

I just didn’t find Simon attractive, as I prefer a man with a bigger build and more muscle. I need a hero, a strong guy, and that isn’t Simon. He’s good company, but I just can’t imagine kissing him.

See him again?

No. AFTER a mix-up with our trains, we parted rather abruptly. But if Simon had asked for my number, I wouldn’t have had the heart to say: ‘No, I don’t fancy you.’ I’d have let him down with, ‘I’m not ready for a relationship yet’ (although I am).

What do you think he thought of you?

I don’t want to come across as big-headed, but I think he liked me. He wanted to see me again. It is just a shame I didn’t find him attractive.

Would your friends and family like him?

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

Simon, 57

Vital statistics

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

Current role

Owner of a mobile cinema.

Would to meet

An outgoing, tactile, funny lady who enjoys hiking. In other words, Julia Bradbury.

Dating Past

My seven-year marriage broke up in 2020, when we didn’t have kids. She wanted a dog instead, but it wasn’t practical in our home with an open garden. Since then, I’ve averaged four dates a year, but never made it to a second date as a lot of women ghost me.

Simon’s seven-year marriage broke up in 2020, when they didn’t have kids. She wanted a dog instead, but he says it wasn’t practical in their home with an open garden

Pre-date nerves?

No, although I do talk a lot. The only thing that worried me about my match is that she enjoys open-water swimming — I don’t even like a cold shower.

First impressions?

Kate looked lovely in a sleeveless dress and had a striking mane of blonde hair. My ex-wife and other girlfriends have all been brunettes, as that’s what lights my fire. That said, Kate’s overall allure was eye-catching.

Easy to talk to?

We’re both chatty. Kate spoke 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 completed the 24-mile Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge recently.

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 hug goodbye without getting her number.

Did sparks fly?

I’m not good at flirting, so if Kate was sending me signals, I wasn’t picking them up. She’d have needed to hold my hand and tell me she fancies me.

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

See her again?

I’d say yes to see how it goes, as I’d be surer after a second date. I sensed the age gap might be a hurdle for her, and it is for me too. I don’t mind dating someone younger, but each year older is a step away, and beyond four 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. I’ll take that as a compliment anyway!

Would your family like her?

My parents would like any woman who made me happy. They’d be somewhat surprised I’d found someone.

Kate’s verdict: 8/10 

Liked? 

The conversation flowed.

Regrets? 

None at all.

Coffee or cab? 

Cab.

Simon’s verdict: 7/10  

Liked? 

Kate is bubbly.

Regrets? 

My truffles were underwhelming.

Coffee or cab? 

Coffee.

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