ROMANCE blossomed on the trail ride organised by Willie Daly in 1994, resulting in a wedding planned for this October. Limerick based Michael O'Leary, a musician in his mid 30s, was the guide and the group included Margoi Becker from Amsterdam, a nanny in her early 30s. "I thought she was nice but I didn't fall madly in love with her at first sight," says Michael. "I was a bit shy."

In the course of conversation Michael learned from Margot that she was frightened of thunder and lightning. So, he says, when a storm hit while camping in Doolin, "I went into the tent to see how she was doing, I stayed there and comforted her. And we realised there was something between us." Margot returned to The Netherlands but came back at Christmas when Michael asked her to marry him.

"I think matchmaking is a good thing," says Michael. "It overcomes a lot of barriers, particularly with people who are shy about chatting up. It's easier when a third person breaks the ice. And once you start talking, the matchmaker can fade away bit by bit."