Valentine’s Day: love is in the air

On February 14, the wheel will host an airborne speed dating event - believed to be the first of its kind ever held on an observation wheel.

Dozens of romantic singletons will soar 60m above the York skyline, with couples allowed only one rotation - about four minutes - to get to know each other.

Back at ground level, the men will then switch to the next pod, working their way around the wheel until every couple has been taken for a spin.

After each brief encounter, participants make notes on a "speeding ticket" dating card, recording whether they would be interested in meeting the other person again. Responses will be collated electronically after the event, and contact details will be sent as text messages to any mutual matches.

The Norwich Union Yorkshire Wheel is already a top choice for amorous couples, having hosted proposals and wedding parties since its opening in April 2006.

In October, The Press revealed how Sarah Carling and Lee Goodwin became the first couple to actually tie the knot, 60m in the air. They were accompanied in their pod by two registrars and two witnesses.

Once it had returned to ground level, the register was signed in the National Railway Museum's Great Hall.

Meanwhile, the wheel's special VIP pod will be available to book throughout Valentine's Day, with champagne provided for lovestruck couples to celebrate.

Judith Whitaker, head of commercial development at the National Railway Museum, where the Wheel is based, said: "The Wheel is a perfect venue for romance.

"Its great views over York provide the ideal setting for proposing, getting married or celebrating an anniversary. There's also the VIP pod, with its luxurious leather armchairs, DVD player and champagne on request. All in all, the Wheel has enormous potential and I can't wait top see speed dating in action."

The speed dating event is being organised by Oxfordshire-based Slow Dating. For more information, visit www.slowdating.com