A WARNING to check carefully on dating agencies when looking for romance has been issued by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust in the run up to Valentine's Day.

The charity, which campaigns for personal safety, also warned people to be cautious when responding to personal ads in newspapers, magazines and on the internet.

Jo Walker, spokeswoman for the trust, said: "There is no reason why you shouldn't try to meet the love of your life through these methods, as long as you are careful and use your common sense.

"It's impossible to rule out all risks when going on a date with any stranger, but there are some basic rules you can follow to increase your safety."

  • Only use an agency that carries out personal interviews
  • Make sure the agency will never give out your surname or address
  • Join an established agency with a good reputation
  • When making a date by telephone or internet, never give personal details
  • Your first dates should be in a busy public place
  • Consider meeting in a place where your friends will be
  • Don't go home with a new date and don't offer or accept a lift.