After reading how unlucky Maidstone singles are, two women are determined to improve the town's dating scene.

Victoria Stroud and Louise Trinder are launching Get Social - a speed dating night with a difference.

The pair are encouraging those looking for love to bring a friend along on the night, who will wait downstairs, for a bit of moral support.

Ms Stroud, 45, is single herself and knows how hard it can be to go out alone.

She said: "It can be a bit daunting and a lot of people are put off from dating because they are worried about this."

Working in sales and events management, the women have their heads screwed on when it comes to organisation.

A DJ will join the 24 guests in Social Chill Bar, cranking up the music between each 5-minute date, to keep the mood light.

Conversation cards will also be on hand, offering a way out of any awkward silences.

Ms Stroud, who lives in Coxheath, added: "We have been to quite a few speed dating nights and they have never really been any good. We thought we could do better and just make it a bit more fun."

The first session welcomes 35 to 45-year-olds to the Week Street venue on Wednesday, March 27 and will run from 7.30pm.

Tickets are £15, friends come along free and drink offers will be available to everyone throughout the night.

If you fancy a change from dating apps call 07547288565 to book a space.