David Smith won celebrity status when he was stood up in front of millions on TV's Blind Date - but a second chance at love is set to make him a star again.

The 28-year-old has spoken exclusively about how London Weekend Television took pity on him and invited him back to record a Blind Date Special so he could pick a girl who would be more forthcoming.

And hostess Cilla Black was right when she hugged David and told him: "We'll sort you out with someone this time chuck".

For the caravan park manager from Threshfield has recently returned from a dream trip to Hong Kong with 27-year-old Kelly Rice, from Windsor.

But Dave says viewers might be disappointed if they are hoping he has a long-term romance on his hands.

David's head is still spinning from the media attention he has received.

He is more awed, though, by the royal treatment he received during his two Blind Dates, especially his trip to Nepal, when blonde Charlotte Harrison failed to show up.

David said: "They called me up asking if I would like to have another go because all these girls had written in for a date with me.

"They set up another show and it will be shown as a Blind Date exclusive. When I went down to London Studios I was amazed at the amount of people who remembered me. Even the reception girls recognised me when I walked in the door," he added.

"I was overwhelmed when Cilla saw me backstage and gave me a big hug. I gave a big sigh of relief and my nerves went for a while."

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