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Speed dating for the 55 plus age group has arrived courtesy of Hailsham-based introduction agency UK New Faces.
Agency manager Dan Selden was persuaded by disappointed older locals the quick first impressions arrangement — offered in three minute slots with 15 suitors — was what they needed to find a match.
Mr Selden, 31, who said the agency's traditional dating programme for all ages and speed dating for younger groups has resulted in 14 weddings in six years, explained, "We have had a few people who have been a bit disappointed that we didn't do speed dating for that age group.
"We had quite a few saying they wished they could come along to our speed dating."
The company has run speed dating events in Eastbourne for the last four years but has not delved into the senior citizen market, until now.
The agency's website is a big draw to those looking for love and the recent glut of demand links to a rise in 'Silver Surfers' — older people using the internet — said Mr Selden.
"One guy phoned me — he sounded very young. He said he had been having trouble with his computer and was there any chance I could pop in next time I was in Eastbourne.
"When I got there I found out he was 86 and he was signed up to several dating agency websites."
The oldest person registered with UK New Faces, based in George Street in Hailsham, is 96.
This first event will be held on May 30 at Chelsea Corner restaurant, Grove Road, starts 7.30pm.
The 30 places — 15 male and 15 female — are filling up along the lines of a familiar pattern, Mr Selden said.
"We are taking bookings now and this event is proving more popular with the girls at the minute. Guys always leave it to the last minute.
"We have just had news that our 14th wedding is on the way. Three of those couples have been in their 70s and so it does happen."
The company hopes this could add even more speed to happy results.
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