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The Guardian
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
Blind date: ‘I took a bathroom break and when I returned she had already asked for the bill'
What were you hoping for? An interesting and sparky guy who had similar tastes and interests, and a sense of fun. First impressions? A bit nervous, like me, and as we'd both got lost finding the place, we chatted about that initially. What did you talk about? Working in the time of Covid. Changing careers and moving into more creative roles. We even touched on whether there are extraterrestrial beings visiting us … and agreed this is highly likely! I learned a lot about Michael. Most awkward moment? I didn't think to introduce myself and Michael had to ask me my name at the end of the date! Good table manners? We shared our plates as expected, so yes. Best thing about Michael? He's open and honest, told me a lot about himself and seemed trusting. Blind date is Saturday's dating column: every week, two strangers are paired up for dinner and drinks, and then spill the beans to us, answering a set of questions. This runs, with a photograph we take of each dater before the date, in Saturday magazine (in the UK) and online at every Saturday. It's been running since 2009 – you can read all about how we put it together questions will I be asked?We ask about age, location, occupation, hobbies, interests and the type of person you are looking to meet. If you do not think these questions cover everything you would like to know, tell us what's on your mind. Can I choose who I match with?No, it's a blind date! But we do ask you a bit about your interests, preferences, etc – the more you tell us, the better the match is likely to be. Can I pick the photograph?No, but don't worry: we'll choose the nicest ones. What personal details will appear?Your first name, job and age. How should I answer?Honestly but respectfully. Be mindful of how it will read to your date, and that Blind date reaches a large audience, in print and online. Will I see the other person's answers?No. We may edit yours and theirs for a range of reasons, including length, and we may ask you for more details. Will you find me The One?We'll try! Marriage! Babies! Can I do it in my home town?Only if it's in the UK. Many of our applicants live in London, but we would love to hear from people living elsewhere. How to applyEmail Would you introduce Michael to your friends? If it was the right situation, but this seems unlikely. Describe Michael in three words Low-key, calm and real. What do you think Michael made of you? That I'm a Londoner who talks a lot. Did you go on somewhere? No, it was chilly so we got the bill and headed to the station. And … did you kiss? On a first date? Never! If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be? I'd have been wrapped up in a cosy jacket and felt warmer, or we'd have sparked off each other to keep warm. Marks out of 10? 6. Would you meet again? No, we didn't have the necessary electricity between us. What were you hoping for? A flirty, fun, lighthearted evening. First impressions? Something about her reminded me of an old flame – I was instantly attracted. What did you talk about? She set out her Extinction Rebellion stall. I subjected her to a rambling assessment of the current UFO narrative and the possibility of NHI (non-human intelligence). Most awkward moment? I took a bathroom break. When I returned Becky had already asked for the bill, thwarting my plans for cheesecake. She had spotted some travel issues so wanted to get going. Good table manners? Ladylike and assured. Best thing about Becky? She is attractive, with a sureness that permeates everything she says and does. Would you introduce Becky to your friends? Definitely. Describe Becky in three words Assured. Petite. Mysterious. What do you think Becky made of you? I was a nervous wreck to start, so she probably thought I was all over the place. Did you go on somewhere? To Waterloo … turns out I had a one‑way ticket. And … did you kiss? A hug goodbye at the ticket barriers. If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be? I'd remember how to flirt and she would have stayed for dessert and had ice-cream, à la Meg Ryan. Marks out of 10? 8. Would you meet again? I asked for her number but she declined. She didn't think we had a connection. Michael and Rebecca ate at Parrillan King's Cross, London a blind date? Email
The Guardian
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
Blind date: ‘I took a bathroom break and when I returned she had already asked for the bill'
What were you hoping for? An interesting and sparky guy who had similar tastes and interests, and a sense of fun. First impressions? A bit nervous, like me, and as we'd both got lost finding the place, we chatted about that initially. What did you talk about? Working in the time of Covid. Changing careers and moving into more creative roles. We even touched on whether there are extraterrestrial beings visiting us … and agreed this is highly likely! I learned a lot about Michael. Most awkward moment? I didn't think to introduce myself and Michael had to ask me my name at the end of the date! Good table manners? We shared our plates as expected, so yes. Best thing about Michael? He's open and honest, told me a lot about himself and seemed trusting. Blind date is Saturday's dating column: every week, two strangers are paired up for dinner and drinks, and then spill the beans to us, answering a set of questions. This runs, with a photograph we take of each dater before the date, in Saturday magazine (in the UK) and online at every Saturday. It's been running since 2009 – you can read all about how we put it together questions will I be asked?We ask about age, location, occupation, hobbies, interests and the type of person you are looking to meet. If you do not think these questions cover everything you would like to know, tell us what's on your mind. Can I choose who I match with?No, it's a blind date! But we do ask you a bit about your interests, preferences, etc – the more you tell us, the better the match is likely to be. Can I pick the photograph?No, but don't worry: we'll choose the nicest ones. What personal details will appear?Your first name, job and age. How should I answer?Honestly but respectfully. Be mindful of how it will read to your date, and that Blind date reaches a large audience, in print and online. Will I see the other person's answers?No. We may edit yours and theirs for a range of reasons, including length, and we may ask you for more details. Will you find me The One?We'll try! Marriage! Babies! Can I do it in my home town?Only if it's in the UK. Many of our applicants live in London, but we would love to hear from people living elsewhere. How to applyEmail Would you introduce Michael to your friends? If it was the right situation, but this seems unlikely. Describe Michael in three words Low-key, calm and real. What do you think Michael made of you? That I'm a Londoner who talks a lot. Did you go on somewhere? No, it was chilly so we got the bill and headed to the station. And … did you kiss? On a first date? Never! If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be? I'd have been wrapped up in a cosy jacket and felt warmer, or we'd have sparked off each other to keep warm. Marks out of 10? 6. Would you meet again? No, we didn't have the necessary electricity between us. What were you hoping for? A flirty, fun, lighthearted evening. First impressions? Something about her reminded me of an old flame – I was instantly attracted. What did you talk about? She set out her Extinction Rebellion stall. I subjected her to a rambling assessment of the current UFO narrative and the possibility of NHI (non-human intelligence). Most awkward moment? I took a bathroom break. When I returned Becky had already asked for the bill, thwarting my plans for cheesecake. She had spotted some travel issues so wanted to get going. Good table manners? Ladylike and assured. Best thing about Becky? She is attractive, with a sureness that permeates everything she says and does. Would you introduce Becky to your friends? Definitely. Describe Becky in three words Assured. Petite. Mysterious. What do you think Becky made of you? I was a nervous wreck to start, so she probably thought I was all over the place. Did you go on somewhere? To Waterloo … turns out I had a one‑way ticket. And … did you kiss? A hug goodbye at the ticket barriers. If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be? I'd remember how to flirt and she would have stayed for dessert and had ice-cream, à la Meg Ryan. Marks out of 10? 8. Would you meet again? I asked for her number but she declined. She didn't think we had a connection. Michael and Rebecca ate at Parrillan King's Cross, London a blind date? Email
The Guardian
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
Blind date: ‘Going way back, she was a mod and I was a rocker'
What were you hoping for? To meet a lovely stranger, get to know them and hopefully find a a delicious meal. First impressions? Susan was lovely, friendly and put me at ease. What did you talk about? Our mutual interest in the theatre. Our varied employment histories and both being extras – I was impressed by her encounters with some well-known actors. Most awkward moment? Going way back, she was a mod and I was a rocker, and we talked about that old rivalry. Although I'm not sure my Francis-Barnett 150cc motorcycle with a top speed of 45mph downhill really counts as me being a rocker. Good table manners? Susan was punctual, and we shared a starter and the vegetable selection for our swordfish steaks. Best thing about Susan? Her openness and zest for life. Would you introduce Susan to your friends? Yes, she would get on well with them. Describe Susan in three words Lovely, intelligent and punctual. Blind date is Saturday's dating column: every week, two strangers are paired up for dinner and drinks, and then spill the beans to us, answering a set of questions. This runs, with a photograph we take of each dater before the date, in Saturday magazine (in the UK) and online at every Saturday. It's been running since 2009 – you can read all about how we put it together questions will I be asked?We ask about age, location, occupation, hobbies, interests and the type of person you are looking to meet. If you do not think these questions cover everything you would like to know, tell us what's on your mind. Can I choose who I match with?No, it's a blind date! But we do ask you a bit about your interests, preferences, etc – the more you tell us, the better the match is likely to be. Can I pick the photograph?No, but don't worry: we'll choose the nicest ones. What personal details will appear?Your first name, job and age. How should I answer?Honestly but respectfully. Be mindful of how it will read to your date, and that Blind date reaches a large audience, in print and online. Will I see the other person's answers?No. We may edit yours and theirs for a range of reasons, including length, and we may ask you for more details. Will you find me The One?We'll try! Marriage! Babies! Can I do it in my home town?Only if it's in the UK. Many of our applicants live in London, but we would love to hear from people living elsewhere. How to applyEmail What do you think Susan made of you? That my conversation went off-piste a bit and I overshared for a first date. Otherwise, that I was an OK bloke! Did you go on somewhere? We went to a bar, sat outside and chatted until Susan had to catch her train. And … did you kiss? We agreed not to on a first date but had a good hug. If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be? Less rambling from me. Marks out of 10? A definite 10. Would you meet again? We talked about meeting again when she returns from a trip abroad. What were you hoping for?To meet a special someone. First impressions? Lovely smile, very smart and well presented. And punctual – I appreciate that. What did you talk about?Shared interests – mainly theatre. How our birthdays almost align. Studying as mature students. Keeping fit. Live music. Living abroad. And, of course, Brexit. Most awkward moment? We were both immediately at ease. Good table manners? Impeccable. We shared a starter and Andrew made sure we had equal amounts. Best thing about Andrew? He was gentle, calm and seemed interested in what I had to say. Would you introduce him to your friends? I certainly would as he was so easy to get along with. Describe Andrew in three words. Warm, good listener. What do you think Andrew made of you? I think he liked me as he complimented me several times, which was much appreciated. He may have thought I was a bit too assertive. Did you go on somewhere? I had a train to catch so we strolled to the station and had time for a drink, enjoying the late sunshine. And … did you kiss? No, just a quick friendly hug as I boarded the train. If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be? Nothing. We had a really nice time – great food, wine and company. Marks out of 10? 9 Would you meet again? Well, there is a National Trust house we both want to see, so maybe. Andrew and Susan ate at Buenasado in Reading. Fancy a blind date? Email
The Guardian
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
Blind date: ‘Going way back, she was a mod and I was a rocker'
What were you hoping for? To meet a lovely stranger, get to know them and hopefully find a a delicious meal. First impressions? Susan was lovely, friendly and put me at ease. What did you talk about? Our mutual interest in the theatre. Our varied employment histories and both being extras – I was impressed by her encounters with some well-known actors. Most awkward moment? Going way back, she was a mod and I was a rocker, and we talked about that old rivalry. Although I'm not sure my Francis-Barnett 150cc motorcycle with a top speed of 45mph downhill really counts as me being a rocker. Good table manners? Susan was punctual, and we shared a starter and the vegetable selection for our swordfish steaks. Best thing about Susan? Her openness and zest for life. Would you introduce Susan to your friends? Yes, she would get on well with them. Describe Susan in three words Lovely, intelligent and punctual. Blind date is Saturday's dating column: every week, two strangers are paired up for dinner and drinks, and then spill the beans to us, answering a set of questions. This runs, with a photograph we take of each dater before the date, in Saturday magazine (in the UK) and online at every Saturday. It's been running since 2009 – you can read all about how we put it together questions will I be asked?We ask about age, location, occupation, hobbies, interests and the type of person you are looking to meet. If you do not think these questions cover everything you would like to know, tell us what's on your mind. Can I choose who I match with?No, it's a blind date! But we do ask you a bit about your interests, preferences, etc – the more you tell us, the better the match is likely to be. Can I pick the photograph?No, but don't worry: we'll choose the nicest ones. What personal details will appear?Your first name, job and age. How should I answer?Honestly but respectfully. Be mindful of how it will read to your date, and that Blind date reaches a large audience, in print and online. Will I see the other person's answers?No. We may edit yours and theirs for a range of reasons, including length, and we may ask you for more details. Will you find me The One?We'll try! Marriage! Babies! Can I do it in my home town?Only if it's in the UK. Many of our applicants live in London, but we would love to hear from people living elsewhere. How to applyEmail What do you think Susan made of you? That my conversation went off-piste a bit and I overshared for a first date. Otherwise, that I was an OK bloke! Did you go on somewhere? We went to a bar, sat outside and chatted until Susan had to catch her train. And … did you kiss? We agreed not to on a first date but had a good hug. If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be? Less rambling from me. Marks out of 10? A definite 10. Would you meet again? We talked about meeting again when she returns from a trip abroad. What were you hoping for?To meet a special someone. First impressions? Lovely smile, very smart and well presented. And punctual – I appreciate that. What did you talk about?Shared interests – mainly theatre. How our birthdays almost align. Studying as mature students. Keeping fit. Live music. Living abroad. And, of course, Brexit. Most awkward moment? We were both immediately at ease. Good table manners? Impeccable. We shared a starter and Andrew made sure we had equal amounts. Best thing about Andrew? He was gentle, calm and seemed interested in what I had to say. Would you introduce him to your friends? I certainly would as he was so easy to get along with. Describe Andrew in three words. Warm, good listener. What do you think Andrew made of you? I think he liked me as he complimented me several times, which was much appreciated. He may have thought I was a bit too assertive. Did you go on somewhere? I had a train to catch so we strolled to the station and had time for a drink, enjoying the late sunshine. And … did you kiss? No, just a quick friendly hug as I boarded the train. If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be? Nothing. We had a really nice time – great food, wine and company. Marks out of 10? 9 Would you meet again? Well, there is a National Trust house we both want to see, so maybe. Andrew and Susan ate at Buenasado in Reading. Fancy a blind date? Email
The Guardian
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
How to describe the sound of bagpipes?
Your review of Rod Stewart at Glastonbury said that the great man was heralded on stage by the 'blare of bagpipes' (29 June). Call me pedantic but surely you could have come up with a less pejorative term to describe the stirring sound of the pipes? Mike PenderCardiff If the UK government put as much effort into stopping Israel's violence against the Palestinian people as they do into condemning stage acts at Glastonbury, there might be some grounds for hope (Streeting condemns anti-IDF chants at Glastonbury but says 'Israel should get its own house in order', 29 June).Douglas CurrieEdinburgh As a 10-year-old, I bought a bottle of green ink in 1955 at a summer fete (Letters, 29 June). I used it at school in my exercise book and was reprimanded by my teacher, who sent me to my previous year's teacher for his expected caustic comment. He was more easy-going, saying: 'You must be as green as the ink you are using' and sent me back to my class Noel SmithTring, Hertfordshire Re your letter about losing the definite article (29 June), I have three violins. Sometimes I play this one, sometimes that one, or the other one. So it could be said I'm playing a violin rather than 'the' violin. Or, more simply, I play WatsonGlasgow Am I the only woman to be offended by the portrayal of my (ageing) breasts on the front cover of Saturday magazine as cherry buns ('A marker of luxury and arrogance': why gravity-defying boobs are back – and what they say about the state of the world, 28 June), or am I turning into my mother?Jean AllenIpswich, Suffolk Have an opinion on anything you've read in the Guardian today? Please email us your letter and it will be considered for publication in our letters section.
