A GROUP that helps combat loneliness in older men is urging people to join up to end social isolation.

Romsey Men’s Shed sees a group of mainly older men get together socially, work on practical projects and get involved in the community.

Inspired by the success of the Men’s Shed movement elsewhere, three friends got together in October 2015 to set up Romsey Men’s Shed (RMS).

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After 15 months of intense effort, the shed opened officially on March 28, and is now in regular use.

It has been growing from strength to strength.

Hampshire Chronicle: Romsey's Men's Shed group surrounding a train made by them for Romsey Oppurtunity Group.

Chairman Malcom Kaill, 72, said: “I joined because when I first retired, I had a network of colleagues, but after I finished work, I didn’t have those colleagues anymore.

“Our aim is to simply have fun working together and having fun in the community, as well as reduce social isolation and promote active and healthy lifestyles in later life.”

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With much support and help from The Romsey School they were offered a site by the former caretaker’s house just to the left of the main entrance gates, which they then secured the necessary planning permission to build a shed.

In addition, they raised the money needed with generous grants from Test Valley Borough Council and the National Lottery, as well as several other contributions and donations.

The men have been involved in numerous community projects and this month their members have made two brightly coloured water-walls to be used for water play, which are up for grabs by any community group, school or playgroup in the Romsey area that would like them.

The approximate 60 members who now make up the group, have worked on various different projects around the community, such as shelving for the Romsey Food Bank or assembling a train for the Romsey Opportunity Group park.

The men meet most Wednesdays from 11am at the Dr Peter Centre, which is off Mountbatten Avenue near Alma Road, where they spend a few hours talking about many things such as, projects in the community, social activities and outings, or talks on topics such as modern technology

To get involved with the Romsey Men’s Shed send a message by email romseymensshed@gmail.com or through their website at romseymensshed.org.uk/.

 

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