A movement which started in Australia in 2007 and quickly spread across the world, now has over 200 in operation across Scotland.

Men’s Sheds are now in 32 local council areas boasting 10,000 plus members.

This was the subject of a talk to Hunterston Rotary by Donald Mclarty, chairman of the Three Towns and District Men’s Shed.

A registered charity, Men’s Shed focusses on providing facilities and companionship for men who, having finished working through retirement, redundancy or ill health, can find new interests and learn new skills.

The Three Towns and District Men’s Shed is based in Glasgow Street, Ardrossan and is planning a major expansion of premises.

Donald Mclarty told HR members: “The interest in Men’s Sheds has risen dramatically over the years with more men joining every year.

“The members are the driving force in everything we do. It’s all about giving men something to do and the ability to meet new friends which often changes their whole attitude to life. Isolation and depression can affect many men when they are no longer in full time employment.

“In Ardrossan, despite the fact we’ve had some water problems in the building at the bottom end of Glasgow Street, we are hopeful the council will have repairs done soon. We have been given permission of enlarge the operational space.”

A new Men’s Shed recently opened in Largs.

For further information contact: Donald Mclarty by email: 3townsmensshed@gmail.com