In 2014, Pat McIntyre, Martin Perril, Joe McManus, Paul Hennessy and Gerrard Hayes set in place the framework for the Castlerea Men’s Shed to flourish.

“It is a balancing act in our shed. It is about doing something you enjoy but not killing yourself working: it’s important to get out to socialise as well,” confides Pat.

The shed has depicted the true essence of teamwork and made fruit of their efforts in return. The men have been busy selling their home-grown fruit and vegetables in local markets throughout the area, with produce including potatoes, onions, courgettes, onions and many more.

“They are going down a treat and are selling very well. People love knowing that it is authentic produce. We grow them in our own allotments on the premises and mind them ourselves.”

The shed has come on leaps and bounds from its humble beginnings in the local Teagasc office, with the group now having their own meeting place, thanks to help from the GRETB.

“It was a big undertaking when we got it. We wanted to make allotments and a garden, but the briars were up over our heads!” exclaims Pat. “We did all of the clean-up ourselves and it took a lot of work, but it looks great now.”

The men of the shed are always kept busy with the projects they undertake, including working on the allotments, constructing buddy benches and helping out the local special school with handy-work.

“It’s nice to be doing something and keeping busy. It is important for us to get people out of the house and away from looking at the same four walls every day. Even if it means being kept occupied for half an hour clearing a bed of flowers, it is still something.”

The shed has welcomed a diverse range of people, including chefs and gardeners, and is always interested in expanding its membership. The shed is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10am until 3pm in St Patricks Street Knockroe Park, Castlerea.

For more information, call Pat on 089 404 4190.