Super shed on the way for Aldridge DIY fanatics

Inspired by the 'Men's Sheds' project set up in Australia, a movement to build sheds to be used as a socialising place for men is now growing in popularity across the UK.

Meetings have been held over the last couple of months to try and find a suitable spot in the Aldridge area, with more than 50 people attending to show their interest.

The plans will be discussed further at the Aldridge and Beacon area panel meeting tomorrow, where council representatives will discuss lending their support.

John Morris, area manager for Aldridge and Beacon, said: "We envisage supporting the set-up of an Aldridge Men's Shed.

"We want the Shed to become a place for making, mending and hobbies where men and women will feel at home and pursue practical interests with a high degree of autonomy – a self-directed space for constructive activity that can help to address social connections particularly among older men and women - a place to meet new friends and regain a sense of purpose.

"We want to make a difference to Aldridge residents by providing an alternative meeting space that enables increased social contact and well-being and opportunities for lasting friendships between people.

"A meeting was held in February at the Aldridge Youth Theatre and over 50 potential shedders attended that meeting.

"There have been several meetings since and at this time the group are still looking for premises to work out of."

Men in Sheds was a pilot project that supported older men who want to get together, share and learn new skills - all in the welcoming space of a 'Shed'.

The movement started in Australia and was first taken up in England by Age Concern Cheshire at Hartford in 2009.

There are now more than 950 Sheds in Australia and more than 200 in the UK, with the movement growing fast.

Other countries taking on the Men's Sheds movement include Ireland, Denmark, New Zealand and Canada.

To find out about the movement and discover how to get involved visit http menssheds.org.uk