In a heartwarming blind date story, Frances, a 77-year-old retired marketing manager, met Eddie, an 86-year-old activist, at Vivo restaurant in Nottingham. The pair shared an evening of delightful conversation, excellent food, and mutual respect.
Frances on Eddie
Frances hoped for a lovely evening with pleasant company. Her first impression of Eddie was that he looked much younger and fitter than expected. He brought flowers and a thoughtful card, which helped break the ice. Their conversation spanned politics, animal rights, protests, golf, and volunteering. There were no awkward moments, and Eddie's table manners were excellent. Frances admired Eddie's openness to other views, describing him as thoughtful, kind, and caring.
Would You Introduce Eddie to Your Friends?
Frances was unsure, noting that many of her friends might not have much in common with him. She described Eddie in three words: political, fit, and caring. She hoped he thought she was okay and had her heart in the right place. The date ended with a hug on arrival and departure, and they did not kiss. Frances would not change anything about the evening, rating it a strong 8 out of 10. They exchanged numbers, but the distance—over 100 miles—might be prohibitive, though they discussed a possible picnic together.
Eddie on Frances
Eddie hoped for a femme fatale to make a better world, but was happy to enjoy two strangers' company over Italian food. His first impression of Frances was smart, with a great appearance and an easy-to-be-with manner. They discussed whether love makes the world go round and what they are looking for in the future. There were no awkward moments, though Eddie knocked over a glass of red wine, which Frances kindly helped rearrange. He appreciated Frances as a straight, honest talker and good listener.
Would You Introduce Frances to Your Friends?
Eddie said no, feeling Frances was too gentle for his activist friends. He described her as having a lovely caring nature, an ambitious dreamer, a sense of purpose, and loads of good energy. Eddie believes distance shouldn't stand in the way of love, so he met Frances despite the different city. He had to catch the last train home. There was no kiss, and he would not change anything, rating the date a perfect 10 out of 10. They exchanged numbers, though he feels they are at different stages of their journeys.
Frances and Eddie ate at Vivo restaurant in Nottingham. Fancy a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com.
