For those feeling lonely in and around Whitehaven, it won’t do anyone any good to grin and bear it – so Gin and Beer It instead!

The popular Whitehaven cafe bar Gin and Beer It is set to host its first ‘Monday Meet Up’ next week, in the hopes that the weekly gathering will combat loneliness throughout the area, and encourage everyone to pop along for food, drinks, a chat, and a chuckle.

Louise Pegram, who opened the town centre bar in September last year, wants anyone who feels they could do with getting out of the house, meeting new people, or even just playing a good board game, to get involved with the lunchtime meet ups, and hopes they will become a regular source of comfort to anyone and everyone.

Gin and Beer It’s ‘Monday Meet Ups’ will comprise of free soft drinks and sandwiches, with attendees being encouraged to bring along their own baked creations after a few weeks, from cookies and cakes to sausage rolls. – anything to fill rumbling tummies!

On top of the snacks on offer, board games including Jenga, Monopoly and Cluedo and plenty more will be played during the get-togethers, helping to break down walls and bring people together.

Caring bar owner Louise is looking forward to launching the weekly event, which will take place from midday until 2pm each Monday, and explained: “The ‘Monday Meet Ups’ are our little way of trying to help people who are a bit lonely.

“It’s all about bringing folks together so they can have a chat, have a laugh, and even make new friends.”

She feels it is important for the word to be spread by all: “Many people in our target age group don’t use Twitter or Facebook, so somebody is going to have to tell them about the meet up.

“But don’t just tell people about it – persuade them to come!”

So with the offer of free food and drink, wonderful conversation, and a roll of the Monopoly dice, make sure to mention the Monday Meet Up to all those you know in need of a pick-me-up, and get down to the friendliest cafe bar in town – it would be rude not to!

For any further information, or to ask Louise questions about the event, head over to Gin and Beer It’s Facebook page.