A NEW social group where men can work on projects or hobbies is coming to the Three Towns.

A Men’s Shed is a place to relax over a cuppa, play cards, have a laugh with new friends or work on creative projects.

Donald McLarty from Ardrossan is organising the new Saltcoats Shed.

He said: “The men’s groups there [in the Three Towns] are usually meetings listening to a lecture or something.

"Men don’t want to do that. They would rather stand at a bench shoulder to shoulder.

“It’s a place to go, to meet with other men. Every Shed does different things.

"We’re hoping to do some kind of woodworking, either making things or recycling furniture. Bicycle repairs are a favourite, things the community wants.

“This [Men’s Sheds] started in Australia 20 years ago and it’s spread worldwide. A Kilbirnie Shed got kicked off a few months ago.

"We’re branching from the Kilbirnie group, but there’s room in North Ayrshire for about five different groups. I’ve got a friend from Irvine who’s coming and he’s then going to spread the word there.

“It’s not a church group, we won’t be preaching to anyone. We will be befriending and working with the guys.

“The local council are very keen on it. The Scottish Government are involved and are backing Sheds all over the place. They think it’s a wonderful idea because it’s lifting men out of depression – it’s seen as therapeutic.”

The first Men’s Shed will take place in the meeting room in Sainsbury’s, Hamilton Street, on Wednesday, March 21 from 7-8pm prompt, with tea and coffee from 6.30pm.

The event is free and open to all men 18 and over.