Aidan on Richard What were you hoping for? A fun, politics-free evening. Something stimulating rather than challenging – it was Saturday night, after all. First impressions? He wasn’t on his phone. Smiling, open, friendly. What did you talk about? Italy. Families. Cycling in London. Football (not my normal go-to subject). Battersea power station. Cooking. Most awkward moment? Getting confused between hare and hair. Hare was on the menu (Richard had pie, I had braised – first time for both of us) and hair – on the head – which you could say is a strong point for neither of us. Our waitress was very understanding. Good table manners? Impeccable. Good napkin skills. Best thing about Richard? Positive about everything. I would imagine he’s very kind to everyone he meets. Would you introduce Richard to your friends? You couldn’t not like Richard. Describe Richard in three words. Positive, thoughtful, smiley. What do you think Richard made of you? That I wasn’t too serious, I hope. I tried not to interview him. Did you go on somewhere? We stayed for a cocktail at the restaurant. And … did you kiss? No. If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be? I wish I’d ordered two puddings – the food was so good. Marks out of 10? 7. Would you meet again? Maybe. The spark wasn’t there but we agreed we both need to see Abba Voyage. Richard on Aidan What were you hoping for? I was hoping to meet someone new who wouldn’t just disappear after one chat … First impressions? We’d never met before but I felt as though I knew him already! He came across as very relaxed and comfortable in my company. What did you talk about? Music. Family. LGBTQ+ matters. Most awkward moment? I can honestly say there weren’t any awkward moments. Aidan made me feel quite at ease all evening. Good table manners? Impeccable. Best thing about Aidan? He was very polite and not overbearing. Would you introduce Aidan to your friends? Certainly, he would fit right in. They would like him straight away. Describe Aidan in three words. Gentlemanly, open, engaging. What do you think Aidan made of you? Not sure. I hope I didn’t talk too much and take over the conversation. Did you go on somewhere? We both had things scheduled for Sunday, but were very surprised how late it was. It was a full evening. And … did you kiss? Just a little peck. If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be? That we had more time: it seemed to go so fast. Marks out of 10? 10. Would you meet again? We’ve made plans to see Abba Voyage.