Lonely bachelors looking for love often turn to dating websites in the search for a partner.

But Robert Darling has taken things that little bit further – by wandering the streets of New York for twelve years with a sandwich board asking women to marry him.

The unemployed 58-year-old – who admits he is a ‘great conversationalist’  – says he wants a wealthy lady to take care of him.

The New Jersey,resident  spends two hours traveling to Manhattan twice a week on his quest for a soulmate.

His billboard declares he is open to offers and includes his phone number and email address.

Plagued with an unsuccessful love life for forty years, he resorted to extreme measures to find a suitor.

Mr Darling said he has never had a serious relationship and his dating history is sparse.

He said: ‘Give up? Never! I’m just warming up. It’s just a matter of time. I’m very patient and I know great success is just around the corner.’