LONELY hearts will find looking for love a lot quicker when speed-dating comes to Salisbury.

The concept, which is taking the dating game by storm, involves about 20 men and women spending three minutes together to see if Cupid's arrow will strike.

When the three minutes is up, everyone moves on to a new potential partner, before recording whether they are a 'yes', 'no' or 'maybe'.

After all the speed-daters have talked, they are given an envelope containing details of those who would like to meet them again.

They can then contact their potential Mr or Miss Right and time will tell if love will blossom.

"Speed-dating has been very successful in other places and we want to see if it will work here," said Anne-Marie Riley.

She is organising the first event, on May 8, with her business partner, Judy Rothwell.

"It can be very hard for people to meet each other in Salisbury," said Anne-Marie.

"The clubs and pubs mainly attract people of a certain age and it can be difficult to talk to new people and actually get to know them, especially if the music is very loud.

"Obviously, speed-dating appeals to a certain sort of person, but we want to make it an enjoyable, relaxed experience."

The pair plan to hold the event in the Bronzeworks, in Milford Street, and the £20 entry price will include drinks and nibbles to ensure conversation flows.

If the concept takes off, the matchmakers hope to arrange more events for specific age-groups later in the year.

"We'll have to see what the response is, but I'm sure we'll get people coming from places outside Salisbury as well," said Anne-Marie.

"Some men like younger women and vice versa, so we might hold special nights for certain ages and we could also arrange speed-dating for older people, if there is the demand.

"We think the Bronzeworks will be a good venue because it's a nice big room, but we can have low lighting and just see how the couples get on when they meet.

"We want Salisbury's first speed-dating to be very informal and fun and, with a bit of luck, people will find someone special."

To find out more, contact Anne-Marie or Judy, on 01722 340707.