LOVE was definitely in the Orford air last week, with Jubilee Neighbourhood Hub hosting its first library speed dating night.

The event on Valentine’s Day was praised by both organisers and those looking for romance, and was one of the first in the UK to be held in a public library.

Around 30 people participated, enjoying coffee, cake and the chance to meet the man or woman of their dreams.

Wendy Molyneux, LiveWire Strategic Libraries Manager who came up with the idea, said: “There was a fantastic atmosphere in the library during the event, and everyone looked like they were having a great time.

“People commented how they liked the setting of a library rather than a bar or club because they felt safe, and it was nice to meet people face to face rather than virtually.

“It was also a great way to engage with the community and help combat potential social isolation.

“Overwhelmingly, people said they enjoyed it, said it was a good way to meet new people, and that they hope we organise similar events in the future.”

The speed dating event has also drawn praise from Time to Read, the public library partnership authorities in the North West.

Their co-ordinator Ian Anstice said: “This is fantastic to see and the LiveWire Team have gone way beyond in order to come up with a successful event that looks like it will start a bit of a trend.

“Linking it so closely to Valentine’s Day was an inspired decision and it took some bravery to put on something like this, so it’s great to see it has paid off.

“We know people love books and all the other services that libraries provide but it’s great to see love itself is a possibility now.”

LiveWire hopes to hold more speed dating events in the future, with more information available via www.livewirewarrington.co.uk/events.