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Established in April of last year, Spangle Hill Men’s Shed is firmly finding its feet at the centre of its vibrant community. Located in Fairhill in the north of Cork City, the shed provides patrons with a new pastime. Irish Country Living chatted to one of the founding members John Kelleher, and he explains how it all began.
“We set up the shed last year with the aim of giving people something new to do.
We have eight regular members, but some people come and go whenever suits them which is no problem
“We were concerned with the welfare of some of the locals in the community and thought something like this could get lads out of the house and give them something to look forward to.
“So myself, Tony Doyle and John Power (Spangle Hill Shed chair) had a chat and we felt that a Men’s Shed would work well. Cork City Partnership were very helpful and we managed to get a two-bedroom house to use as our workshop.
“We have eight regular members, but some people come and go whenever suits them which is no problem.”
Nearly all of the members are retired with a lot of them ex-tradesmen.
“I was a painter and we have lads that were welders and scaffolders and many more,” says John.
We are starting up art classes and have held training days for things like first aid
Although there is a common background and age profile of its members, John reiterates that anyone is welcome to join.
“We started off doing just a bit of woodwork as we only had a few basic hand tools. We made things like flowerpots, birdcages and wheelbarrows.
“Before Christmas we made up candleholders, and gave them out to families in the area.”
Still in its first 12 months, the shed is already investing in new activities. “We are starting up art classes and have held training days for things like first aid.
“This spring we are organising a garden, which is great as I was never mad into gardening but I would like to try it.”
John feels that the shed definitely has had a positive impact on his peers’ mental health. “It’s definitely something to look forward to.
“There is always good craic and banter there and I love working with my hands.”
The shed is located at 27 Fairhill Drive and is open on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10am.
New members are warmly welcome and encouraged to get in touch for further information by calling John on 086-4010201.
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