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Timmy the Tortoise still looking for love after 11 rounds of speed dating

Timmy was not able to bring some of the females out of their shell. Picture: Andrew Gipson Archant

A tortoise looking for love after being single for more than 45 years is still on the hunt after a round of speed dating could not get him to come out of his shell.

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Timmy taking a bath while getting ready for his speed dating. Picture: Andrew Gipson Timmy taking a bath while getting ready for his speed dating. Picture: Andrew Gipson

Timmy the tortoise is 48-years-old and has been with Andrew Gipson, 52, from Diss since he was four.

After feeling sorry for Timmy Mr Gipson decided it would be time to find him a mate.

The pair went to Norfolk Tortoise Society for a round of speed dating to see if Timmy could find the one.

Mr Gipson said: “He met 11 possible mates but he just wasn’t in the mood for love.

Timmy on a date. Picture: Andrew Gipson Timmy on a date. Picture: Andrew Gipson

“But it was a very informative day and I was able to learn a lot about tortoises in regards to their health care.

“Things have moved on from the days of Blue Peter and the advice they used to tell us.”

Mr Gipson moved to Diss from Milton Keynes to help his parents. Over his life Timmy has been driven over with a car and run over with a lawnmower.

Norfolk Tortoise Club was able get Timmy looking his best by repairing his shell after the damage done by the lawn mower and car accident to his shell.

Timmy on a date. Picture: Andrew Gipson Timmy on a date. Picture: Andrew Gipson

Mr Gipson added: “He was only with his ladies for about four hours so he may need more time.

“The experts at Norfolk Tortoise Club suggested sending him there for a week to let him have more time.

“Even though Timmy’s date wasn’t successful, I learnt so much about tortoise health, diet and general well-being.”

Norfolk Tortoise Club cares for more than 30 tortoises who are in need of care and new homes. It hopes to educate people on how to care for their animal and be a place for owners to share their experiences and information.

Mr Gipson added: “Timmy is looking great, Julie Smith gave me loads of help and advice while I was their - I can’t thank her enough.”

Mr Gipson is hoping to use what he learnt at the tortoise club to help find Timmy a partner in the near future, with dates continuing to be set up.