A WHITCHURCH-based community group has renewed their appeal for a place to call home following the closure of Centre North East (CNE).

Whitchurch Men in Sheds is a charity formed to provide a venue where isolated men and women can meet and chat while also making things for themselves and the community.

The group had previously operated out of CNE but were forced to move out in 2019 as the building fell into a state of disrepair.

In late 2019 a working group was formed by Whitchurch Town Council to decide what to do with the building, but with global events taking precedence, the group has largely fallen silent.

This means Men in Sheds and any other potential users of the building have been left in limbo and they are now appealing for a new location.

Geoff Crowther-Smith, chairman of the Men in Sheds explained the situation.

"We are keen to welcome members old and new when the current lockdown situation is over," said Geoff. "Unfortunately we have a major problem in that we have nowhere to call home at present.

"We were asked to leave the building when the roof leaks made it non-viable and Shropshire Council had neither the funds nor the inclination to make the necessary repairs.

"Whitchurch Town Council has not yet made any decision about taking over the CNE building so we are left in limbo.

"So we are looking to the kind people of Whitchurch and surrounding area to come to our rescue."

Geoff says that as a community group they would not be able to pay a realistic rent, but would happily takeover upkeep of a potential building.

He added: "If you have, or know of, a property we could use please let us know ASAP or if you are in a position to sponsor us with regard to renting a suitable unit please let me know.

"Ideally the property would be in Whitchurch, or on a local bus route, and we need the sort of space that two articulated lorries side by side would take up, with electricity and toilet facilities.

"We could make any necessary alterations and would obviously fit things like water, and electric meters to allow us to pay our share.

"While we are not in a position to pay anything but a peppercorn rent unless we can find sponsorship to that effect, we would commit to carrying out repairs and maintenance in lieu of rent.

"So please, if you have somewhere in mind please contact me on 07783 009299 or email me at g.crowthersmith@gmail.com"