Banter and woodwork down at the shed (From Northwich Guardian)

Banter and woodwork down at the shed

5:30pm Saturday 20th March 2010 in

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A WOODEN chair, rocking elephant and toy train are some of the projects currently on the go at Northwich’s Men in Sheds project as it celebrates its first birthday.

Malcolm Bird, project coordinator of the Age Concern initiative, said the shed, which has more than 30 regulars, had been a huge success in its first year.

“One 92-year-old who came said if it had been here 30 years ago then he would have been the first in the queue.

“The shed is great because it stops men being isolated or lonely if they are retired or out of work and gives them a reason to get up and dressed in the morning.

“It’s like being with a bunch of workmates, there is constant banter and leg pulling,” he said.

Located in Hartford’s Business Park, off Chester Road, the Men in Sheds project has been designed as an outlet for over 55s to come and try out their DIY skills while meeting like-minded people.

Ralph Little, 72, from Rudheath, has been coming to the shed twice a week since it opened last year and said it brought the men happiness.

“It has brought a bit of sunshine back into my life,” he said.

Dave Corris, 68, from Weaverham, only discovered the shed last week, but said he plans to come every week now as he loves the atmosphere and the chance to refresh his DIY skills.

Men in Sheds is having a double celebration at the moment as it has also just had more than £500 worth of equipment to the project from the Vale Royal Lions.

The shed is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 4pm and all are welcome.

For more information or to donate wood, glue or tools, contact Malcolm on 08456182858.