Blackpool Mecca Bingo launches 'Wingman Service' to help singletons ditch dating apps and find love in person
The new ‘Bingo Wingman Service’ is designed to help singletons find real-life connections.
Mecca Bingo in Blackpool has teamed up with a dating coach to launch a new ‘Bingo Wingman Service’ aimed at helping local singletons make real-life connections this summer.
The initiative follows new research from Mecca Bingo revealing that 83% of single people would like to meet someone naturally rather than through dating apps. However, after years of digital dating, confidence appears to be a barrier, with 60% admitting they struggle to approach someone new in person.
According to the survey, 74% see summer as the ideal season to find romance and 83% believe it is the perfect time to expand their social circle. Yet more than a quarter (26%) say they find it difficult to start conversations with new people in real life.
To help break the ice, Mecca team members across the country, including in Blackpool, have been trained by dating coach Cici Coleman as official ‘Bingo Wingmen’. The trained colleagues will be available at participating Mecca Bingo clubs every Thursday throughout June 2026 to help spark conversations, boost confidence and encourage connections.
‘Singles crave organic moments’
Cici Coleman said: “In a world where so much communication now happens behind a screen, it’s no surprise that approaching someone in real life can feel more daunting than ever. That’s why more singles are craving organic moments where they can meet naturally and feel genuine chemistry straight away.
“Shared activities like bingo help take the pressure off traditional dates by creating fun, relaxed moments people can bond over naturally - and for anyone needing an extra confidence boost, my newly trained Mecca Bingo Wingmen are now equipped with all the right tools to help break the ice and make those first interactions feel easier.”
‘A fun, subtle helping hand’
Sarah O’Neill, director of innovation at Mecca Bingo, added: “Our clubs have always been social spaces at heart - places where people come together to enjoy good food, entertainment and shared moments.
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“Our research shows that singletons are increasingly seeking out more experience-led ways to date, but with many lacking the confidence to put themselves out there, we wanted to offer a fun, subtle helping hand to give them the confidence to make that first move.”
How it works
The Bingo Wingman Service will be available at participating Mecca Bingo clubs, including Blackpool, every Thursday evening throughout June 2026. Players who speak to a designated Bingo Wingman for dating advice during the session will be eligible to receive one voucher for a free Bingo Wings Meal from a participating Mecca Bingo team member.
Maximum one voucher per person/couple, subject to availability. Over 18s only. No cash alternative.