A Newtown man who decided to set up a mental health support group in response to an increase in male suicide in the Newtown and Welshpool area has won Volunteer of the Year at this year’s Welsh Charity Awards.

Andrew Coppin, founder of The Walking Men of Mid Wales group, has been recognised nationally for his extra special contribution to men’s mental health in his local area.

This is Andrew’s second award this year, having previously won the Powys County Times Lifetime Achievement Award 2022.

He decided to start a walking and talking group last October to support vulnerable men after four people took their own lives. Meeting on a fortnightly basis, the group helps any man in the local area to meet up and help them open up, share their problems in a safe, non-judgemental space. He has since started a mixed group, all of which is proving a lifeline to many people.

"It's got men in the community talking,"Andrew Coppin said on winning the award. "It's shown men that it's OK not to be OK and that boys can cry too, without being judged. It's removed a grey cloud that was hanging over the town and helped well over 500 men in the community in the last 10 months.

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"This award is also for the community of Newtown and Welshpool and I want to thank them for their continued support for myself and more importantly the group. I also want to thank Wayne, Gary, Thomas, and Kez for their support.

"And a little message for any male struggling, always remember you are a much-loved father, son, brother, uncle. You’re loved and adored by many, and as we approach Christmas, the best gift you can ever give your family is your presence on Christmas Day – not a present, as the hole you would leave behind could never ever be replaced."

The Awards, including the Volunteer of the Year category, sponsored by Keegan and Pennykid, showcase the positive difference we can all make to each other’s lives, by recognising and celebrating the fantastic contribution of charities and volunteers like Andrew.

WCVA Chief Executive Ruth Marks said: "Welsh Charity Awards demonstrate the extraordinarily diverse work found in the sector, and the impact charities and volunteers make to the lives of people every day in every community across Wales. We’re thrilled, at WCVA, to be able to honour these five worthy winners.

"If you are inspired by them, then do get involved during Welsh Charities Week by volunteering, donating or giving a shout to your favourite charity or voluntary group."

Andrew along with all five winners will be honoured at a reception in ITV Cymru Wales Studios tonight (Tuesday, November 22)