A space for men to escape the stresses and strains of life and brush up on their skills is nearly up and running in Gillingham.

The Gillingham Men’s Shed, or ‘Gillshed’, is hoped to open around Easter time after volunteers started preparing the ground at Orchard Park Garden Centre.
The sheds are on order and all that remains is for them to be erected on the site… and for the pandemic to ease.

Once all the ducks are in a row men in the area will have somewhere to gather and take part in activities – or just chat and drink coffee. Men’s Sheds are springing up around the country as awareness increases of the need of an outlet for the chaps.

The Gillshed won permission to site several sheds at the garden centre last year, and undeterred by lockdown after lockdown its committee pushed ahead with the project, launching a Community Interest Company (CIC) to oversee it.

Gillshed chairman Phil Wheatley said: “Gillshed, our own Men’s Shed in Gillingham, aims to bring together like- minded men of all ages, to promote friendship, good physical and mental health, particularly for those approaching or already in retirement. When that long- awaited retirement arrives, many men can find themselves missing a daily routine and the camaraderie they enjoyed during their working lives. Although women are well catered for with WI and other women’s groups, Men’s Shed is designed to fill a gap to give men similar opportunities to meet in a relaxed and safe environment, practise practical skills, learn new ones and make new friends. Or just come along for a coffee and a chat.”

If you are interested in becoming a member, talk to one of the committee members or contact Phil Wheatley on 07784 777282 or pajcw@btinternet.com.

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