Men needed for Anglesey Walking Festival speed dating

Speed dating walks have proved very successful on the Isle of Wight

Organisers of the Anglesey Walking Festival are hoping some participants will stroll off into the sunset. But they need more men to make it happen.

A speed dating walk is one of the evening events on this year's programme, but so far the women registering are outnumbering the men.

"We introduced speed dating for the first time last year, but unfortunately we didn't get a pairing," said Elfyn Roberts, community development officer for organisers, Menter Môn.

"We got the idea from the Isle of Wight festival, who've had three weddings in three years, so we need to catch up!"

During the sunset stroll around Rhoscolyn on 3 June, each participant will be paired up with another walker for ten minutes before it's all change.

"At the moment, we've only got half as many men as women," said Elfyn. "So we need men. They can register on the night.

The walking festival brings about 2,500 visitors to Anglesey

"It's a nice romantic setting with a glass of wine at the end. As long as you're unattached, you're welcome."

Serious single walkers could incorporate the speed dating into the 100-mile challenge.

"People really go for this," said Elfyn, who explained that the winner of the challenge is the person who walks the most miles during the festival, as verified by the leaders of each walk they attend.

"You've got to be doing at least one of our walks every day. There's always fierce competition."

Other events during the festival, from 29 May to 13 June, include a session with a psychic medium, walks exploring the island's heritage, myths and legends, and a food tour.

The wide variety of activities helps the walking festival attract almost 2,500 people to the island at this time of year.

"People come for the whole week and stay locally," Elfyn said. "It's a substantial help to Anglesey's economy, without a doubt."