For a single person looking for love, sometimes it's not as simple as bumping into someone in the local pub. And for those who can't stand the idea of answering a clichéd lonely hearts ad or face the disappointment of hoaxes on internet dating sites, their prayers have been answered.

New to the North East TopMatch is a matchmaking service with a difference. For a start there are no computers involved - TopMatch consultants meet every member individually to get a real idea of their personality, and build up a profile of that person based on that meeting.

Christine Hartridge, TopMatch area director for the North East, explains: "The service is completely confidential: no contact details are released until two members agree that they want to get in touch.

"Every member is checked and verified as we ask for proof of ID and address, and check that they are really committed to finding a match."

After a stint in the South of England, Christine moved back to the region following the end of a relationship and quickly discovered the lack of resources available for singles, particularly in the region.

The company has been operating in the North East for the past 12 months and has a wide range of people, aged 20 to 72, on its books.

Christine and her team follow guidelines, according to what each individual is looking for, and select matches according to lifestyle, morals, personality, goals and overall compatibility.

TopMatch also offers its members advice and guidance on how to behave on a date, and how to attract people for those who are a little out of practice.

When members are informed of a potential match, it is up to them to organise a meeting at a pace that suits them, and TopMatch consultants are always just a phone call away for nervous members who need reassurance beforehand.

Christine added: "Having tried internet dating and introduction services myself, I feel that an introduction service is definitely preferable and, in the North East, TopMatch is probably the only company that can offer this service.

"Not many people have the confidence to go to social dating events, so this is a great alternative."

Image: Christine Hartridge, TopMatch in the North East.

Relevant links

TopMatch website

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