NEW WALK STARTING MONDAY 16th FEBRUARY 2026

Hello, my name is Gordon. I am 39 years old (with the big 40 coming in August 2026), a dad to three children, and I live in Blyth, Northumberland, right on the seafront. I absolutely love it here. Nothing feels more like home than being by the sea.

We are incredibly fortunate in Northumberland and often take for granted just how much is on our doorstep. From relaxed coastal walks to more challenging routes, open spaces and cracking views, there is so much to explore. One of my personal aims for 2026 is to experience more of what our county has to offer and, hopefully, to share some of those walks with others as part of Men Walking and Talking in Blyth.

I have worked in the automotive industry for the past twelve years, and before that in hospitality. Like many men, my working life has involved pressure, deadlines and expectations, alongside the usual challenges that come with life outside of work. Over time, this has affected my mental health and also helped me to recognise how important it is to have space to talk, listen, and feel understood.

I have made mistakes along the way. I have made poor decisions and, at times, hurt people I care about. Owning that has not always been easy, but it has taught me the value of honesty, accountability, and learning from others. Being able to talk things through, and just as importantly to listen, has helped me grow and continues to shape how I show up for myself and for others.

In 2020, I lost my mum, and that experience changed me. I am still learning years on. I have also lost close friends in earlier years, which has further reinforced how important it is that men have places where they can simply turn up and not have to carry everything on their own.

I came across Men Walking and Talking on Instagram and immediately respected what they stand for. When I realised there were no local walks in the North East, I got in touch, and that conversation led to the Blyth group being set up.

There is no pressure to talk on our walks, and nothing is forced. You can walk quietly, listen, or speak if you feel like it. There is no judgement, no fixing, and no expectations. Just a group of men walking side by side, getting some fresh air, and taking a break from the noise of everyday life.

Please feel free to drop me a message or simply turn up to one of the weekly walks. Everyone is welcome.

I believe that walking side by side makes it easier to talk, to listen, and to realise we do not have to face life on our own.