An Aberdeenshire’s men’s shed has bucked the trend after opening its doors to a group of women.
Portlethen Men’s Shed has agreed to let the ladies group use the space for arts and crafts once a week.
While the group are not the first to admit women, those that do remain few and far between.
>> Keep up to date with the latest news with The P&J newsletter
Trustee George Pringle said: “I think in this day and age, you can’t be restrictive.
“When we apply for funds, it asks on the application form whether our ethos is to serve the whole community.
“So I don’t see any conflict with being a men’s shed and admitting women.
“As it happens, we have a female treasurer and a female secretary.
“The fact is we’re a men’s shed three days a week, it’s just that we have the ladies group in once a week on a fourth day.
“But when it comes down to it, we’re open to all.”
Last year, Jason Schroeder, executive officer of the Scottish Men’s Sheds Association, sparked a row after saying they should be men-only as they were set up to help with male health and well-being.
But Mr Pringle said: “All sheds are independent, and our policy is that everyone is welcome.”
