Glentoran welcomed male members of the newly formed Titanic Area Community Group for a special tour of The BetMcLean Oval on International Men’s Day.

The group, designed for men aged forty and over, provides a safe and supportive space for individuals experiencing isolation, mental health challenges, addiction or significant changes in their personal circumstances.

This week’s visit, delivered through the award winning Glentoran Social Partnership, offered participants an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and learn more about the rich heritage of their local football club.

Led by lifelong Glentoran supporter Thomas Warnock, the group enjoyed an engaging behind the scenes tour delivered by club historian John Moore, whose insights into Glentoran’s storied past, including the club’s Vienna Cup triumph, captured the imagination of the entire group.

Talking about the tour, Titanic Area Community Group member, Lawrence, said:  “This wee men’s group is about giving men a place to come, talk, laugh and feel supported. Some of the lads are dealing with depression, suicidal thoughts or just feeling a bit lost after retirement. Getting them out of the house and into places like Glentoran gives them a real lift. Even the Linfield fans among us loved it.

“I’ve been a Glenman for more than fifty years and I still learned things today I never knew. For the men, it brought connection, humour and a real sense of belonging. Some had never been inside The Oval before. Maybe the next time they are feeling a bit down, they’ll come back and watch the Glens.”

Colin Jess, Chairperson of Glentoran Football Club, added: “Today’s visit is a perfect example of the purpose and impact of the Glentoran Social Partnership. Part of our work is about bringing people together, tackling isolation and giving individuals the confidence and connection they may be missing in their daily lives. We are proud to support Thomas and the men in this group, and I want to place on record our thanks to John Moore for delivering such an engaging and insightful tour of The Oval. We would be delighted to welcome the group back again and we hope to see many of the men join us on a matchday in the near future.”

The Glentoran Social Partnership generates an estimated £2.9 million in social value every year, engaging more than 3,500 people across East Belfast and beyond through a diverse range of community programmes.

The Glentoran Social Partnership was recently recognised at the 2025 NIFL Football Awards, winning Club Community Initiative of the Year for its outstanding work in promoting health, wellbeing, and inclusion across East Belfast and beyond. It also received the Community Impact Award at the 2024 EastSide Awards

For more information on the Glentoran Social Partnership visit www.glentoran.com or email: socialpartnership@glentoran.com