Mushy sends hearts aflutter on First Dates

THE star of Channel 4’s Educating Yorkshire, who left many viewers teary eyed when he temporarily overcame his stammer, delighted fans when he reappeared on TV screens – this time in a quest to find love.

Musharaf Asghar, known as Mushy, who won over the hearts of the nation on the popular TV reality show, recently set Twitter aflutter when he visited the First Dates restaurant.

Mushy dined with Salina, a fellow Muslim and a fan of musicals. The pair got on like a house on fire, despite a few initial awkward silent moments.

The 20-year-old told Eastern Eye that being part of the show last month was an amazing experience, and he was surprised by how much he enjoyed it.

“At first I was quite nervous to go on the show due to my stammer, but I knew I could do it and it was yet another chance for me to inspire the audience,” Mushy said.

“I was very shocked to see the support not only for myself, but what Salina got too. I never expected it. When the show was finished, I tweeted: ‘feels like Educating Yorkshire all over again.’

“My Twitter page was flooded with love and support from all these people I never knew.”

Ever the gentleman, Mushy paid for the dinner, and the couple met for a second date and to see Salina’s favourite musical, Les Miserables.

Things were looking promising for them with Mushy offering to cook Salina a curry for round three. However, he has yet to deliver on his word.

“She’s really keen on trying it, so I need to get a move on and make her one,” he said.

Mushy told Eastern Eye that he was still in touch with Salina, but didn’t reveal any further details about whether the duo were dating.

The Yorkshire lad currently works as a motivational speaker and said he was keen to set up his own business. He was also planning on going to university to study pharmacy or optometry.

Fans hoping to see him on their screens again soon can take heart, as he has revealed that there are new projects in the pipeline.

Mushy said his life had changed in many ways since appearing on Educating Yorkshire three years ago.

“It’s been a rollercoaster of a ride. It has its ups and downs, but I love what I do. Being a role model and giving people the urge to try something new is something I honestly can’t believe, especially being a British Muslim. With all this ISIS stuff going about, it’s nice to shed light on the real teachings of Islam.”

He believes the show highlighted the challenges of living with a stammer, which he admitted was very difficult at times.

“It’s a tough life being a stammerer. It’s not easy at all. You could see that in some parts of the show I was trying to get the conversation going, but the words didn’t come out.

“Stammerers do face a lot of hardship and hurdles, but so does everyone else. I don’t really use it as an excuse but just as something for me to actually use in a way to inspire others.”