A TOWN centre bar is set to host regular meet ups on Wednesday evenings for men struggling with their mental health.

Dead Eyes on Bridge Street is a popular place to get together with friends and family for drinks and a bite to eat.

The venue even scooped one of our Best of 2022 awards and officially serves the town’s best burgers.

Owner Graeme Keast, who took over at the pumps in March last year, will be holding an open forum each Wednesday evening for male customers to have a drink and a chat.

The first event will be held on Wednesday, November 2 between 8pm and midnight where men can come on their own or with a friend, enjoy a drink and share what’s happening in their lives.

Graeme and Alex outside the town centre bar

Graeme and Alex outside the town centre bar

Graeme said: “The idea came about when I was having a chat with my general manager Alex Tennant and Geoff Ireland from Andrew Collins Hair & Beauty.

“We were opening up and felt so much better afterwards, having shared what was on our minds.

“We have all had a friend who has struggled with their mental health with some ending their lives as a result and we wanted to address it in a positive way.

“If we can help just one person then it’s worth doing.

“You can find forums on social media where men can talk via message or email but I don’t know of anywhere that people can come and relax and talk openly to others who may also be struggling.”

Inside Dead Eyes where the meet ups will be hosted

Inside Dead Eyes where the meet ups will be hosted

The future events, marketed with #hereforyou, have already generated a positive response from customers on the business’ Facebook page.

One person said: “As someone who this has had an impact on personally, I cannot thank you enough for doing this.

“Maybe you could have some numbers and websites handy for charities and groups who can help people who are struggling.”

Graeme added: “The events are open to all men – they don’t even have to buy a drink if they just want to talk.

“It’s a terrifying statistic that the biggest killer in under 45s is suicide and we want to make it easier for men to come and talk.”

For more details go to facebook.com/deadeyesden