Dating, or courting as it was once known, is a delicate art. You need to appear neither too eager, nor too nonplussed. It's a tightrope and one that many of us fall from time to time. To aid those of us perpetually slipping from the rope, the concept of speed dating was born.

For the uninitiated, this is how it works - some girls and some guys get together in a big room, they chat to each other in turn for a few minutes and then decide which they like.

They jot the names down on a piece of paper and should two people both indicate a liking for one another, then bingo! Green light! They're away. Cue meeting up for the date 'proper', wining, dining, more wining and then possible something a little more romantic. A gloriously simple concept and one that you can now recreate yourself in the comfort of your living room.

All you need is a group of willing pals and the Speed Dating Kit and you're in business. Before you know it, you'll be your neighbourhood's equivalent of Cilla Black, although hopefully your dating creations will last a little longer than most of hers did.

The pack includes a variety of speed dating essentials, and everything you need for a proper match making session: