Every week, the Daily Mail asks two singletons to report back from their blind date. This week, Rachel and Andy recount their dinner date experience. Read on to find out how it went…

Rachel, 55

Vital Statistics: Divorced, single for eight years. One son, 23.

Current Role: NHS customer services.

Would Like To Meet: An easygoing, sociable guy who isn’t obsessed with football. My ideal man is the singer and presenter Michael Ball.

Dating Past?

There is almost none! I was with my husband from the age of 22 until we separated in 2018. Our divorce came through in 2022. Now I’m happy, settled and ready to meet someone. My family are invested in this date, too. My son wrote a letter for Andy outlining that he is 6ft 5in, can bench-press his own weight and that Mum must be home by 9.30pm. My parents even gave me a lift to the station.

Rachel, 55, said: ‘My son wrote a letter for Andy outlining that he is 6ft 5in, can bench-press his own weight and that Mum must be home by 9.30pm’

Pre-Date Nerves?

Yes, I’d even had an anxiety dream about the date. Getting ready, I felt like I was going for an interview. I was pretty stressed.

First Impressions?

Andy was so friendly. He greeted me with a huge smile, which immediately put me at ease. We hugged hello and started chatting straight away. He’s tall and attractive and had a gentlemanly look about him. My instinctive thought was that we were a good match.

Easy To Talk To?

Very. It’s unusual to meet someone who is as talkative as me! We stayed clear of anything controversial or messy. By that, I mean politics, which I’m not into at all. Religion is a no-no as well.

Andy has travelled more than me. My world has been a lot smaller, whereas he’s been to Las Vegas and Atlantic City a lot. We also talked about our children. He’s a dedicated dad, which is a definite plus for me.

Embarrassing Moments?

I knew I would drop food at some point, and I did. When some of my salt and pepper squid hit the table, I said to Andy: ‘I warned you this would happen!’

Did Sparks Fly?

Maybe an ember for me. I need to get to know someone first, so it’s a slow process. However, we kept good eye contact, and I could tell he was really listening to me.

See Him Again?

Yes, initially as friends. At one point, I went to the loo and, when I came back, Andy had written his number on a piece of paper. We’ve exchanged texts since, which have been lighthearted and fun. He only lives a 40-minute drive away so we’re planning a weekend walk with his dog.

What Do You Think He Thought Of You?

We’re very different, but we’re both family-focused, hard-working and sociable. I’d say he liked that about me. But did he fancy me? I’m not sure. He told me his celebrity crush is Sandra Bullock, and that is not me. I’m much more of a jeans-and-jumper woman.

Would Your Friends Like Him? 

Yes, and my family would, too. Andy is smiley and friendly. His face lights up and he’s easy to talk to.

Andy, 59

Vital Statistics: Single for four years. Two boys, 34 and 17; a girl, 13.

Current Role: Semi-retired statistician and pharmaceutical consultant.

Would Like To Meet: Someone with a great sense of humour and lovely eyes.

Dating Past?

I’ve been married once and had another long-term relationship, which ended nine years ago. I’m not actively dating though. Occasionally, my sister-in-law tries to matchmake for me. We recently went to a wedding together and she was at it again. She’s had no success yet but that doesn’t stop her strong-arming me over to talk to every woman she thinks might be suitable!

Andy, 59, said: ‘I’m a statistician but I tried not to be boring – I did talk quite a lot about Las Vegas and Atlantic City, and I’ve got a tattoo’

Pre-Date Nerves?

A little bit. Mostly, I was very excited because I like surprises.

First Impressions?

Rachel is an attractive lady – she’s elegant, with lovely nails. I definitely fancied her. Thankfully, I’d made an effort in my chinos with my posh shoes on.

Easy To Talk To?

Yes, we laughed about the fact that we’re not young, but not quite old yet. I told her I’ve already had an operation on my shoulder and one on my knee.

We did mention our exes. She’s a good prober, but it didn’t feel like a job interview. We discovered we both love river swimming. She also loves the singer Martin Kemp, and Spandau Ballet’s Gold is my karaoke song.

Embarrassing Moments?

No, we had a good laugh.

Did Sparks Fly?

I think so. I was flirting, although Rachel was a bit more subdued. I suspect that was down to nerves. There were a few lingering glances between us.

We didn’t kiss on the lips at the end – it was on the cheek instead. We could have spent a fair few more hours together, too. Rachel suggested another drink, but then had to leave to catch her train home because of cancellations.

See Her Again?

Yes, we have had a few texts back and forth since. Date two will be a walk with my dog. How to describe him? He’s a bit of a Scooby-Doo type – a big, lovable coward. Rachel comes to Cambridge often, which is near where I live, so that helps.

What Do You Think She Thought Of You?

God, I don’t know. I’m a statistician but I tried not to be boring – I did talk quite a lot about Las Vegas and Atlantic City, and I’ve got a tattoo. I suppose it was a midlife crisis decision – a Queen of Hearts on my arm, which I got while on a cruise I’d won.

Would Your Family Like Her?

Oh yes. My daughter, sons and dad would love her. She’s quiet, but the quiet ones are always more interesting, aren’t they?