calls.

The firm, thought to be the first in the Island, has apparently been set up by a globe-trotting businesswoman with similar operations overseas.

But workers at the agency office were staying tight-lipped this week about who she is and how the service works.

Singles Introduction Agency calls itself an "adult, professional and confidential dating service that allows you the opportunity to meet and enjoy new friends, with an end to establishing solid, meaningful relationships''.

"No guesswork, no embarrassment, no anonymous mailbox addresses,'' it promises.

"The response has been quite colossal,'' a man answering the agency's phone said this week. "It's very surprising to say the least.'' He believed the firm was offering a money-back guarantee of three compatible partners.

"I think there's a charge of $50 for the first six months,'' he added.

"There's a register already.'' The man, who had an English accent, declined to give the owner's name. "She doesn't like anyone disclosing anything,'' he said. "That's part of her business.'' He said she was off the Island, but would return soon to answer media queries.

"She's got other businesses in other countries and she does a lot of travelling. When she's ready she will contact people.''