Mayo's Siobhan takes centre stage on RTÉ's First Dates season opener

Last night's First Dates episode, the first in the series, showcased Castlebar's own Siobhan, a 24-year-old woman on a quest for love.

Paired with James from Cavan, a "giveaway presenter" with nerves to match his excitement, the duo embarked on a date filled with surprises.

Siobhan, who dedicates her time to caring for adults with special needs, immediately clicked with James. Both expressed contentment with their single lives but expressed a readiness to explore the possibility of finding love.

As the date unfolded on national television last night, James shared a tale of flying his long-distance American-based girlfriend to Paris for her birthday, complete with a romantic boat trip by the Eiffel Tower.

In contrast, Siobhan's best date was a simple yet heart-warming picnic down the road. James, ever the charmer, promised to top that experience if given the chance for a second date with Siobhan.

The bill arrived, and Siobhan gracefully allowed James to pick it up, with a promise to reciprocate on the next outing.

What added an extra layer of intrigue to this episode was the unique double-date scenario. Siobhan, alongside another participant, Jade from Newry, was joined by James and his "wingman," Stephen, a 28-year-old Athlone native. The twist kept viewers on the edge of their seats until the waiter revealed the pairs.

At the end of the episode it was disclosed that the foursome continued their evening with drinks at a bar, indicating the success of their respective dates.