There are over 400 men’s sheds across the country. Here’s what a random five we picked have been getting up to recently. It is truly fascinating and what a range of activities. One of the groups here is a men’s and women’s shed. There is bound to be one near you!

Longford shedders visit Brussels

Members of the Drumlish-Ballinamuck Men’s and Ladies Sheds in Co. Longford made a trip to Brussels in February. It was facilitated by MEP Ciaran Mullooly. Among the highlights they identified were a visit to the European Parliament and they also witnessed a speech by President Zelensky calling for more support from EU countries.

Kells Men seek €60k

• Kells Men’s Shed seek to raise €60k

Kells Men’s Shed has launched an iDonate page with an aim of raising €60,000 by the end of the year so it can develop its own permanent premises. It has already been given planning permission by Meath County Council to place two large, purpose-fitted buildings on a piece of land that will be leased to it by Meath County Council.

Naas Women and Men get fit

• The Naas Women’s and Men’s Shed Walking Football Teams in training.

Naas Men’s Shed has been offering lots of exercise options to its members.
They have combined with other local groups for mixed walking football games to get fit for the Kildare Sports Partnership Mixed Football Blitz. In addition to that a number of members completed a six-week Swim Ireland beginners’ course.

Northside model

• Look at this fantastic modelling work by members of Knocknaheeny-Hollyhill Men’s Shed.

The Hollyhill Express is a 40ft long Northside Village model created by Knocknaheeny/Hollyhill Men’s Shed in partnership with the NICHE Health Project.

The stunning display captures the heart of the place in fantastic detail, from St Mary’s on the Hill to the colourful terraces that characterise the area and other local landmarks. It has been put on display at local locations.

Clon Men ag labhairt Gaeilge

• Clonakilty Men’s Shed members meet for Cúpla Focal in O’Donovan’s Hotel, Clonakilty.

There is a growing enthusiasm for casual opportunities to use Irish and Clonakilty Men’s Shed are playing their part in meeting the demand. It has established what it calls its Cúpla Focal group, which meets in the front bar of O’Donovan’s Hotel for an hour each Tuesday.