An owner of a newly opened  coffee shop , is on the lookout for single men to join her speed dating event.

As a newly single woman herself, Nicky Gillon, 41, decided to set up a speed dating event as a way to connect people at her café ‘Self’.

She says that she had an amazing response from women, but not so much from men.

Nicky added: “In my 20s I went to a couple  of speed dating events in cities and it was really good fun.

“Even if people don’t meet someone, it’s still nice to have fun and enjoy the social aspect.

“The speed dating would be really casual and informal.

The Bolton News: Nicky really wants to get the event up and runningNicky really wants to get the event up and running (Image: Public)

“I’ve had a really good response from women.

“So, we are absolutely calling out for men to come speed dating.”

She also said that it’s a nice way for people to meet each other in person rather than online, and she just can’t do dating apps.

Nicky added: “I love the thought of getting to know someone and I think it’s really hard to do that online.

“I am quite newly single and I just can’t do something like Bumble.

“I don’t want people to take it so seriously, but I know people can feel quite vulnerable coming to meet people, but they can see it as coming to see likeminded people.”

She hopes that she can help people move away from the stigma of putting themselves out there, particularly men.

Nicky said: “I’m hoping that this will help men step out of their comfort zone.

“I would love for that stigma to go.

“It’s okay to take a chance and dive in.”

Nicky first opened Self to offer something more to people, after successfully running We Are The Kitchen in Westhoughton for five years.

And she already has a while range of events on the calendar, including her new menopause classes.

Speed dating was originally due to go ahead on Friday November 18, but it was cancelled due to not having enough interest from men.

Once Nicky has received enough responses from men, a date will be set, and the event will be put in motion.

Nicky will also get a temporary alcohol license so people can enjoy a drink, as well as a variety of food.

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