PICTURES: New Men's Shed is unveiled in Grantown
A Men's Shed has reopened in Grantown for coffee, cake, chat and some woodwork after the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Spey Shed was unveiled at its new home at the town’s YMCA Community Centre when the ribbon was cut on Friday afternoon.
Men’s Sheds exist throughout the world, first arriving in Scotland in 2009. It is estimated that 190 Sheds are now at work throughout the country.
A ‘Shed’ is an unique place where people can come together and socialise with a purpose.
Designed for shoulder to shoulder communication, the activity is wood craft but just as important is the chat with coffee and cake of course!
Hamish Thom, one of the Grantown shed project leaders, is delighted to see the facility up and running again.
He said: “It was a very successful and happy event with our guests piped in by our own Donald MacGregor to witness the ribbon cutting by local Highland councillor Muriel Cockburn.
“I am delighted that several of those who attended were previously unknown to our group and special thanks must go to Joe Burns who has made a huge contribution in preparing the workshop.”
Councillor Cockburn said: “It was an absolute privilege to open the Spey Shed.
“The work, vision and dedication to achieve this is commendable. Speaking to the members their passion shone through with plenty of fantastic ideas.
“This is a brilliant asset for Grantown and the surrounding area and I wish the team every success going forward.”
A Shed had been a popular gathering place in Grantown four years before Covid-19 outbreak thanks to the generosity of Grantown Grammar School and the head of CDT, Kenny McGougan.
A group of retired people would turn up on a Friday afternoon and create bird boxes, candle arches and other wood items.
Mr Thom explained: “With no constitution or formal organisation, this much valued club was the highlight of the week for all involved.
“When Covid came along, things changed and we no longer had our shed facility.”
Sadly post Covid and with new regulations, the use of Grantown Grammar School was no longer an option and plans were put into motion last Autumn for a replacement.
Mr Thom added: "An appeal for wood working tools was made to commercial suppliers and we were fortunate to receive a substantial donation from Wicks in Inverness.
"Following an on-line appeal, we were encouraged by receiving several very generous donations of tools from the public too. The appeal for tools is on-going and any donation would be most welcome."
Anyone who can assist can contact Mr Thom on 07841729046.
Anyone interested in joining the Spey Shed (there is no membership charge), is welcome to come along to the launch or contact Mr Thom for more details.
It is hoped to fully open the workshop next month.
