Transforming my pub into the Men United Arms

When Prostate Cancer UK asked if I’d turn The Junction into a Men United Arms for four days to coincide with rugby league’s annual Magic Weekend festival at the end of May, I agreed.

As part of Spirit Pub Company, head office like us to work with charities so we run events like quizzes, live music, guess the first and/or last goal scorer over a game, hamper raffles - then all profits go to the chosen charity.

To plan for the transformation we had a few meetings face-to-face and over the phone with Prostate Cancer UK. The key areas to get right were the entertainment and engagement for our guests and the pub’s appearance.

From a giant banner on the front of the pub, to branded drip trays, beer mats, collection tins and bunting, the pub was transformed. We even sold a special Men United Ale (thanks goes to Tyne Bank Brewery for their help with this), and a Magic Breakfast, with a percentage donation going to the charity.

Entertainment​

Over the four days we had local band Hyde & Beast doing a gig, an exclusive DJ set from Frankie and the Heartstrings, and BBC Sport’s Dave Woods hosting a breakfast. Fortunately my team are used to dealing with high volumes of sports fans, especially when Newcastle United are playing at home.

Over 230 new customers registered for the gig, and about 60 attended the breakfast. The Prostate Cancer UK team promoted the events through PR, marketing and social media which clearly proved a success.

As well as an obvious uplift in sales, and guests through the door the impact on my team was excellent. They loved it and holding a special event meant they got to experience something different.

As I said, we’re used to big crowds being based so close to St. James’ Park, but seeing all the rugby league fans singing and getting on with each other was great. Also having a cracking North East band come to play here was fantastic.

Support​

Based on the lovely Facebook posts, TripAdvisor reviews and conversations with guests over the weekend, I really think people will remember us and come back and visit again. People loved the pub, and Newcastle in general, as it’s a great party city!

A few months on now and we’re all really pleased to have been (and still are) a part of the campaign.

I’d urge landlords and managers to sign up to host a Men United Arms and support Prostate Cancer UK in their bid to help more men survive prostate cancer and enjoy a better quality of life.

Doug Scougall is general manager at The Junction in Newcastle upon Tyne​​

Whether it's running a quiz night, hosting a BBQ or placing pin badges on the bar, Prostate Cancer UK’s Men United Arms pack of goodies will help licensees raise a glass for men everywhere and help beat prostate cancer. For more information visit: prostatecanceruk.org/menunitedarms ​