Love in the air for the over-50s
IF you are single, over 50 and looking to meet someone then an upcoming speed dating night could be the answer to your prayers.
Two innovative Ipswich women, Karen Wilson and Margaret Valk, are organising a night to meet friends and possibly a life partner.
The speed dating night will bring 20 men and 20 women together to gauge their compatibility.
Ms Wilson described it as is a social gathering "for people who are time-poor, or shy, or who don't go to pubs and clubs".
"We'll have 20 tables and every five minutes a bell will ring and the girls or guys will move to the next table. It will be nice to chat," she said.
"There are an awful lot of lonely people out there and they don't know where to go or what to do. So my friends and I thought that we could do this and see if we get any calls. It is a great way to meet people. I, my girlfriends and other women could meet their life partner and that would be fantastic ... or someone to go to the flicks with or go for a drive in the country."
Ms Wilson said she was "hoping to hold it at the croquet club at Queens Park" and said the atmosphere would be conducive to a relaxed conversation.
"I have just turned 60 and it has been a few years since my husband passed away. With these dating sites it is hard to ask someone for a cup of coffee," she said.
"When you get older you are not putting yourself out there ... and I don't go to night clubs or bars. If you have a venue then at least you have got a chance.
"I am one of those people who will talk standing in line at a supermarket. I am a bit more gregarious, but not everybody is."
Ms Wilson said the evening might also be an opportunity to make friends, even if the right guy doesn't materialise.
"You could meet another woman ... even if it is just to have a chat and go walking together," she said. "It doesn't just have to be to meet a guy."
To express interest in attending the over-50s speed dating night call Karen Wilson on 0488415799 or email karen_gary@bigpond.com.
