Gabriel’s Guys marks first year helping men across Tameside

A men’s support group in Ashton-under-Lyne is celebrating its first year of bringing people together and tackling loneliness in the local community.

Gabriel’s Guys, which meets at St Gabriel’s Church Hall, Ashton under Lyne, offers men a place to meet for a coffee, a chat and a range of social and activity-based sessions. The group was set up to support those who may be feeling isolated, bereaved, divorced or living with health problems.

Organiser Steve Crompton said the aim was to create a welcoming space where men could meet others and build friendships. On the group’s recent first birthday, members gathered for one of their regular Thursday sessions, with sport on the television, lunch and a quiz planned for later in the day.

The group meets every Thursday and usually attracts between 20 and 25 men. Sessions alternate between the church hall and activities elsewhere in Tameside, including visits to Tameside Cycle Circuit at Ashton Moss, where members can take part in cycling and other outdoor exercise.

Steve said the group had grown steadily and now offers a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, including indoor bowls, exercise bikes, trips to the cinema and bowling. He said the idea was to give people encouragement to try new things while also giving them the chance to talk and socialise.

Volunteers play an important role in keeping the group running. Kurt and Jonathan help with setting up the room, while Josie and Marjorie assist in the kitchen and help provide food and refreshments.

Members say the group has made a real difference to their weekly routine. Dave, who has been attending since the group started, said it had become an important part of his life and that he would “don’t know what I’d do” without it.

He said the sessions gave him and others a chance to get out, have a conversation and enjoy company, particularly during the winter months when loneliness can be more of a problem.

Another member, Bill, said the group had been especially helpful as he supports his wife, who has dementia and lives in a care home. He said the club offered friendship, understanding and practical support.

Kevin, another attendee, said he had enjoyed taking part in cycling sessions at the track, adding that he preferred his own electric bike but liked the chance to get out and take part.

Steve said anyone interested in joining could get in touch through the group’s Facebook page, by email or via WhatsApp.

Gabriel’s Guys runs as a social and support group for men in the local area, with organisers hoping it will continue to grow in the year ahead. 

If you'd like to find out more about Gabriel's Guys, contact them on Facebook