Members of Aberdeenshire’s biggest men’s shed can finally pick up their tools after its base officially opened its doors.
Around 50 people turned up to the opening ceremony of the Inverurie Men’s Shed after the charity completed construction of its long-awaited workshop.
The occasion was marked at the premises on the town’s Harlaw Way with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Aberdeenshire provost and local councillor Hamish Vernal.
The group aims to eliminate social isolation and mental health issues among men by offering a space for them to chat and to work on DIY projects.
Members of the men’s shed had been grafting for months to complete the workshop, which will accommodate around 90 members.
Mr Vernal said the men’s shed was “definitely open for business” – praising the work already done by the group to bring the local community together.
He added: “I was looking for words which effectively described the men’s shed. Two words are very applicable – lifetime learning, because people are never too old to learn new skills.
“Another word very applicable is well-being. It is a word very difficult to define itself but when you see it you know it.
“The men’s shed is about well-being, not only from the individuals who use it, but also what they take out of it and what they give to the community.”
He added the group had “developed a relationship and given something back to the community”.
The Inverurie Men’s Shed facility was secured through a community asset transfer from Aberdeenshire Council, which was finalised in November.
Secretary of the group, Alistair Smith, said the next phase in establishing the men’s shed would be the completion of its social area in two cabins in the yard area, which should be done in a matter of months.
He added: “We are probably pushing 90 members now. Now the workshops is open we are ready for members to come in and do their projects, and do their projects for the community as well.
“We may be one of the few sheds with a smiddy – we have a forge for metal-working as well. Hopefully now we will be able to attract more members.”