Find love in a matter of minutes at The Lane's speed dating night on Thursday.

The bar in South Court, Deal, is hosting two events this Valentine’s week in a bid to help locals find love.

The first event, speed dating, will be held on Thursday, February 12, at 7.30pm. It costs £5 and includes a free shot, which owners Anna Murray and Chris Vidler are calling Dutch courage.

The plan is for women to remain in their seats as the men rotate around the bar. The couples will have a maximum of three minutes to get to know each other before moving on.

A selection of ice breaker questions will be on every table in case conversation fails to flow.

Miss Murray said: “If there’s a match, they will be emailed within 24 hours.”

Men and women of all ages are encouraged to sign up. Anyone not taking part will be excluded from the venue.

Miss Murray and Mr Vidler, who opened the bar in May, have pledged to host a free engagement party for any matches who really hit it off.

Mr Vidler said: “Don’t be shy. You never know you might meet Mr or Mrs Right.”

The second event, a traffic light party, will be on Saturday, February 14.

Entry is free and everyone who enters the bar will be given a coloured sticker representing their status; red for taken, amber for it’s complicated or green for single. Funk and soul music will be provided by DJ Ian Dunn.

Mr Vidler said: “Many restaurants will be offering romantic dinners for two but we wanted to do something different. ”

To sign up for speed dating, contact The Lane on 01304 448283, email info@thelanedeal.co.uk, or pop in.