Andy's Man Club launches new ‘Coffee Cave’ at VE Day Village celebration

The community gathered in Haughton Green on Sunday 11th May.

As Mental Health Awareness Week begins, the timing could not have been more powerful. This weekend, Haughton Green’s Tommy Todd Village Green was more than a stage for the VE Day 80th anniversary celebration—it became a beacon of healing, remembrance, and resilience.

At the heart of the event was the launch of Andy's Man Club Tameside’s new “Coffee Cave”—a welcoming hub for men to talk, connect, and be reminded they’re never alone. Born from struggle and strengthened by solidarity, this safe space opened its doors in full public view as part of a remarkable community day that offered something deeper than entertainment: it offered hope.

From toddlers on trampolines to veterans sharing stories, every part of the day whispered the same message—we’re in this together. Local legends Martyn, Jo, and the Haughton Green Eventful team rallied families and neighbours to turn out not just to mark VE Day, but to build something better for tomorrow.

The timing couldn’t have been more poignant. Following recent tensions in our community, and on the first day of Mental Health Awareness Week, Andy's Man Club Tameside proudly reported a record-breaking milestone—nearly 80 local men over 18 attended sessions in Tameside this week alone. That’s 80 men refusing to suffer in silence. 80 men showing courage. 80 reasons to believe we’re moving in the right direction.

And the community responded. Volunteers, including the ever-present Oggie the Viking Biker, lead Facilitator for AMC in Tameside was on hand guiding folk through the stalls, introducing them to the new Coffee Cave, and opening quiet conversations that might just save a life.

In a tug-of-war competition that was more than a game, the East Manchester Rhinos RFC stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Andy's Man Club—rival teams, yes, but united in purpose. The Rhinos may have taken first place, but it was the Andy's Man Club Wives’ team, finishing second and turning heads with their strength and spirit, who reminded us that behind every man is a community holding him up.

Fairground laughter, local music, and the aroma of burgers filled the air—but what lingered most was the spirit of connection. From handmade crafts to heartfelt chats, this wasn’t just a fête. It was a healing moment for a community determined to look forward, together.

“This wasn’t about medals or headlines,” one local dad said while sipping coffee inside the new cave. “It was about showing up for each other.”

As we continue through Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s carry the message planted on the village green: community is the cure. Whether it’s Andy's Man Club offering a brew and a safe space, or the Rhinos standing strong in unity, Tameside is choosing compassion over division—and lighting the way forward for all of us.

Credit: Oggie the Viking Biker