Of course, I didn't want to be alone at all, so I joined some friends for an evening with 15 guys - speed dating.

Sam was nervous. Nick was cool. Matt wanted to run before he could walk. Ed was wary. Doug was an expert. And Lance had drunk so much rum and coke, he fell flat on the floor.

Stools were set up either side of large, high tables. Not the best way to test chemistry.

But we chatted and laughed. Discussed movies, hobbies and sports. An insight into 15 unique lives.

When the last three-minute whistle blew, we propped up the bar until the last tube.

I had agreed to go round the world with Doug. Play tennis with Nick. And have lunch with Ed.

Scoresheets were matched and e-mails crossed, but real life kicked in and all plans were soon dropped.