Newbridge Men’s Shed has been an integral part of the local parish in Kildare for almost 10 years now, and it doesn’t look to be leaving any time soon.

Like any men’s shed worth its salt, woodwork is the name of the game for the Newbridge members.

“We mainly do our own projects and when people come to us asking for things we do those as well,” says secretary Alan Walsh.

BirdWatch Ireland commissioned the men to make owl bird houses, window boxes and other similarly exciting woodworking projects.

The shed is very inclusive of people from all walks of life and they often sit down for a cup of tea and a chat.

New premises

Reaching its first decade of existence, the shed was set up in the beginning by the parish at St Conleth’s Church in Newbridge and now lies at the back of the parochial house.

“It was the only one of its kind nearby at the time,” says Alan, who explains that the shed is currently in the process of applying for more funding to open up further opportunities and projects down the line.

Alan has been a member for five years now and seems to really enjoy his time spent at the shed.

There are six members at the moment and they range roughly in ages from 50 to late 80s.

The shed is open on Mondays from 2pm until 6pm. Some members travel from Dublin to the shed.

If any person in the area wants something made, they should contact the shed to make this known, because Alan is keen to mention their willingness to craft woodworking items for the local community.

Anybody who wants further information on the Newbridge Men’s Shed should contact Alan on 086-8244591, or email wwalshe@gmail.com