Whitchurch town mayor, Councillor Tony Neville, has launched Men in Sheds, a succcessful project to combat loneliness in older men.

He officially opened the shed, based in Centre NE near Tesco to give men, mainly of retirement age, a place to go to undertake hobbies and improve their well-being.

David Torrens, treasurer for Whitchurch Men in Sheds, hopes men of all ages will share time together and learn new skills.

He said: “The purpose of a Men in Sheds group is to have a place for people to meet, make friends and follow their interests, whether it be joinery, woodturning, computers, model making, basketry or art – whatever the premises can accommodate. Members are predominately retired men who find the shed culture gives them a reason to get up in the morning and restores their self-esteem, which leads to improved health and well-being.

“But younger mature men are also welcome to learn new skills from the older guys. We intend to make things to benefit the community such as seating, signage and planters.

“But the work is not compulsory, people can just sit and chat over a cup of tea if they want.”

David hopes to receive help from local groups, having already been well supported by Whitchurch Round Table, Rotary Club, the Mayor, Sainsbury’s, plus others.

The shed is open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 4pm. For details visit www.whitchurchmeninsheds.uk or call David on 07743 283272.