Free hugs will be on offer in Newcastle on Valentine's Day aimed at those who might otherwise miss out in the love department on what's classed as the most romantic day of the year.
A warm embrace will await anyone who wants one on February 14 when volunteer huggers will be out at Grey's Monument and - at a time when others might be cosying-up with loved ones or couples may be starting out on a romantic date - their aim is to provide "next best thing".
It's the latest idea from Free Hugs Newcastle , which is part of a nationwide social movement, initially inspired by a Youtube Video, which is all about sharing the love.
The movement has led to a whole month, July, being dedicated as International Free Hugs Month. Doing exactly what it says on the tin, volunteer members offer hugs to strangers in public places as random acts of kindness simply to make others feel better.
The Newcastle organisation, whose Facebook page was set up in 2014, points out how something small can have a big impact and one of its previous events saw its volunteers in action the day after the 2017 London terror attacks to counter the climate of fear with a message of love, security and peace.
Its upcoming Valentine's Day session is set to strike a similar chord with many passers-by on the day.
A spokesman for the event said: "As Valentine's Day is supposed to be an extra special day for those who are all loved-up, not everyone has someone to be romantic with. So we're doing the next best thing and bringing Newcastle some Valentine's Day Hugs."
The free hugs will be available on February 14 at the Monument in the city centre between 5pm and 7pm.
Anyone who can't wait until then can take up an earlier offer on January 26 when Free Hugs Newcastle's New Year End of the Month Hugs will be available at the Monument from 11am until 1pm.
Follow Whats On NE
here
