Men learn new skills and hobbies at community shed

Goostrey Community Shed was set up in 2021 by five members of the village after they stopped working.

The initiative has helped them to socialise, discover new skills and hobbies, including woodwork and ironmongery.

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The project is based at Orchards Farm, part of Bidlea Dairy farm shop.

After funding the venture themselves, members approached organisations and businesses to help pay for more tools, machinery and materials.

Members of Goostrey Community shed enjoy socialising (Image: Fiona Bruce)

Around 20 members now meet three times a week, to work, craft and build together.

Men enjoy chatting to each other and sharing challenges.

Using their new expertise, they have built various items for Bidlea Dairy including picnic tables, as well as new gates for St Luke’s Church in Goostrey.

Fiona Bruce MP was very impressed by their achievements when she visited the project.

The team is now keen to grow in 2023 and is appealing for support from the business community.

Paddy Fagan, one of the founding five members, said: “Whilst this is a relatively new project, it is starting to flourish.

“We have identified a need within newly retired men to engage in an activity such as this.

“We’re now looking for further funding and we would be extremely interested to hear from any companies or organisations who would like to help us in our mission.”

Goostrey Community Shed gives members the chance to learn new skills (Image: Fiona Bruce)

Fiona Bruce MP said: ‘It was great to visit the Goostrey Community Shed and to meet some of the members who benefit enormously from its services.

“I was particularly impressed with the renovated gates being made for Goostrey Church.

“Retirement can often prove to be a difficult time for people, especially those who have stopped working recently, and it’s important to have something to do, to keep mentally and physically well.

“The Men in Sheds initiative provides this – stimulating projects with a community emphasis.

“I would encourage anyone who is interested in joining to attend the next open day and see what’s on offer.”

For further details, contact Paddy Fagan on 07957 837765.