Finding love on the Tube

If speed dating, online personal adverts and even dating in the dark have passed you by, experts claim the ultimate London pick-up spot could be closer than you think.

It may seem an unlikely place to meet the opposite sex, but the District line has been revealed as one of London's most popular locations for finding a partner.

Researchers found that 10 per cent of Londoners have been asked out on a date while on the Tube, and that 39 per cent of commuters are single.

Of those who admitted to being asked out on the Underground, 48 per cent had been approached on the District line. However, only six per cent had been propositioned on the Bakerloo.

Psychologist Linda Papadoupolos believes the key to the Tube's success is familiarity.

She said: "If you see someone you like on the Tube, you know where you can find them again. People tend to travel the same route, and often even sit in the same place on a train every day.

"There is also an element of control involved. You know when you have to get off the train, so you can plan how you are going to approach someone and time things so - if things go wrong - you're not stuck for long.

"I think if you're getting off at the same stop as someone, there is also a likelihood you might work in the same industry - if you are both in the City, chances are you have similar jobs, for instance."

Jose Adams of online dating company Yahoo! Personals, which commissioned the research, said: "Sixty-two per cent of Londoners commute, so it makes sense for young professionals to make use of that time."

CJ Stanley, who is 24 and works in advertising, met her boyfriend Mark on the train.

"I'd spotted him a few times on my train, then one day we were really delayed, so we got talking," she said. "We left it at that but then a few weeks later we were on the same train home, and both got off at the same stop. We decided to go for a drink together, and we have been together ever since.

"It's hard to just talk to someone on a Tube as you don't want to appear weird. But you tend to see people regularly, so someone can easily catch your eye. I think it's a nice way to meet someone."