Lonely 83-year-old appears on television to find love

A lonely 83-year-old has appeared on television in the hope of finding love, after putting a ‘lonely hearts’ note on his village notice board.

Dave Vallance, from Devon, appeared on ITV’s This Morning admitting that he feels lonely and is struggling to find someone to spend time with.

The retired firefighter, who lives alone with his dog, lost his wife several years ago, 27 years after they met on a blind date on New Year's Day in 1990.

Speaking about his late wife Doreen, he said: “I really enjoyed my life with her. It was love at first sight. We went on holiday - we didn’t go abroad but we went to other places.”

He has been searching for a companion for over a year, adding: “I don't much like being on my own. I'm just looking for someone to spend some time with, to chat with, that would be nice."

In a bid to meet someone new, Mr Vallance started by posting a lonely-hearts message in his local shop window in Ivybridge.

He posted the note asking to find a female companion over 70, who was a ‘non-smoker’ and ‘non-drinker’ looking for friendship and days out.

Without a response and still hopeful he could find the one, he has now appeared on television, explaining conditions for those who might want to give love another chance.

He revealed that he wanted someone nearby but was willing to look in a 20-mile radius of his home as he is able to drive.

Remaining hopeful about finding love, he added that he has become friends with a man named Michael.

He said: “I have been lucky in one respect, I have met a lovely man named Michael. I can’t say I fancy him. He’s a smashing chap and we get on ever so well and I help do odd jobs for him because of his crutches but I would like a lady really, it’s only a couple of days a week I see Michael.”