A new social facility, designed to provide north-east men with a creative environment, has been launched by Alex Salmond.
The former First Minister and Gordon MP officially opened the newly-renovated Men’s Shed in Inverurie yesterday, which has been boosted by £20,000 of new funding.
Mr Salmond said: “I have learned about the Men’s Shed movement in the last few months, as it has been sweeping over Aberdeenshire. This facility is top notch; I don’t know what half the machines are!
“The only thing I can do myself, is plumbing, because my grand-dad was a plumber; in fact, I still have his drain rods so I can unblock drains, but that is the only ‘handy’ thing I do.
“The Men’s Shed movement is an important part of our vibrant, diverse and inclusive communities and plays a part in making the world a less lonely place for our elderly and vulnerable neighbours.
“Isolation can occur for many reasons, which is why places such as Men’s Sheds must be supported. ”
His positivity was echoed by Archie Peebles, the chairman of the Trustees of Inverurie and District Men’s Shed.
He added: “We have 120 members already and it has been fantastic to see the entire community get behind this project. After starting in the community centre two years ago, it’s great to see this open today.
“We received two grants from the Postcode Lottery and the National Lottery amounting to £20,000, which meant we could buy some of the big tools.”
The initiative has been a national success and Jason Schroeder, the executive officer of the Scottish Men’s Shed Association, explained how it was booming.
He said: “There are more than 40 open men’s sheds throughout Scotland today, with another 30 in development.
“This Inverurie project is extremely important to a lot of people as this is where it all started.
“If you have time on your hands, for whatever reason, get down to your men’s shed and make that your local instead of going to the pub.”
Founder member, Alistair Smith, 72, from Inverurie, added: “It’s good for meeting other people, making new friendships and learning new skills.”
The Inverurie and District Men’s Shed includes a woodwork shop, metalwork shop and clean room. It also has two refurbished Portacabins to provide a social area and a unique 70-foot-long polytunnel.
The Inverurie and District Men’s Shed can be found at Unit 19, Harlaw Industrial Estate, and is open on Mondays and Thursdays 10am-4pm.
