Work has started to deliver a north-east village its first ever Men’s Shed.
Volunteers in Aberchirder have been hard at work since April to make a vacant plot of land ready to build a space for men to gather for hobbies and projects within their community.
The Men’s Shed project launched last year but had been trying to secure its own space ever since.
Earlier this year, however, Aberdeenshire Council gave the group the nod to take on the former Doran housing site on North Street.
The scheme is part of a wider Men’s Shed network which also runs in Turriff and Inverurie. It started in Australia before spreading across the globe.
In Aberchirder, it is hoped it will allow men who have entered retirement to give back to the community.
James Paterson, a group member, has been spearheading construction efforts.
So far, a polytunnel has started to be built on the ground.
Foundations for the first of three cabins have also been laid.
About 36 men have already signed up to make use of the shed when it is complete.
But Mr Paterson hopes more will be encouraged to take part with the scheme when there is a building in place for them.
“There’s a lot of other local lads who haven’t quite signed on the dotted line yet, but everyone is quite keen to get involved in the project,” he said.
“It’s been supported well locally and a few local organisations have also shown interest in us, including Macmillan – to provide something for people who may be suffering from cancer.
“It will hopefully get them out and involved with the community.
“That’s what the men’s shed project is about, really. Getting lads who have maybe just retired and don’t have hobbies back into the community.”
