Men’s Shed to hold open day in health week

Men’s Shed to hold open day in health week

23 May 2018

THE Men’s Shed in Downpatrick is hosting an open day next month.

The June 2 event has been organised as part of Men’s Health Week and runs from 9.30am until 3pm at its Ballydugan Road industrial estate base in the town.

Visitors are welcome to look around the workshop and nursery, watch a woodwork demonstration, talk to members and learn about what they do to support the community.

The Men’s Shed aims to promote positive mental health and wellbeing to men over the age of 50, by offering a space to socialise and pursue practical leisure interests. Members can get involved in various projects and activities which help to develop friendships, connections with the local community and work other fellow shedders.  

The organisation shares its premises with the local branch of Action Mental Health New Horizons and is open on Tuesdays between 9.30am and 3pm and Thursdays and Fridays between 9.30am and 1pm.

Men have a sizeable, well-equipped workshop where they make wooden items to order such as garden seats and planters. They also produce items for community and conservation projects, like colourful window boxes for the Ardglass Development Association, or bat boxes for Ulster Wildlife. 

The Men’s Shed also offers opportunities to learn new skills including art, wood carving, clay, copper and leather. As well as practical indoor activities, the men also get out and about learning about the area’s heritage and visit ancient sites.

They also enjoy day trips to places such as the Ulster Museum, the Armagh Planetarium or Balmoral Show. The men also enjoy visiting other Sheds as a great way to socialise and exchange ideas.

The Men’s Shed offers practical interests, social engagement, physical fitness, new experiences, fun activities and tea, biscuits and plenty of craic.

For further information about the Men’s Shed telephone 07885 407094.