Castle Douglas Men’s Shed to Hold Open Day and Expand
The Castle Douglas Men’s Shed, located at a workshop on 1-2 Carlingwark Street, is set to host an open day on November 19 to showcase the benefits it brings to its members and the wider community. The shed, a go-ahead club, has been steadily growing in popularity and aims to welcome both men and women who are interested in woodworking and handcrafts.
Chairman James Robertson extended a warm invitation to the public to attend the open day, emphasising the shed’s ethos of friendliness and camaraderie. He outlined simple rules for visitors, including being friendly, bringing their own tea mug, and taking responsibility for their own safety as the shed is run by volunteers and does not come under health and safety regulations.
Secretary Malcolm Williams revealed that the shed currently has around 50 members, with a core group attending regular Wednesday afternoon sessions. The shed, which is a registered charity, closed temporarily during the pandemic but re-opened with a dedicated group of volunteers continuing its activities.
Members of the shed engage in various skills such as woodworking and metalwork, with ongoing projects including refurbishing a three-wheeled dog trailer and building a new Santa’s sleigh for the town. The shed’s presence in the community has been growing, with a strong online following and ambitious plans for the future.
The shed serves as a vital social space for men of all backgrounds, providing a sense of purpose and community. While skilled members lead many projects, less experienced members find meaningful tasks to contribute to the shed’s activities. The shed’s goal is to ensure its sustainability and continue offering a welcoming space for both men and women to connect and engage in creative pursuits.
In conclusion, the Castle Douglas Men’s Shed’s expansion and upcoming open day highlight the importance of community spaces that foster camaraderie, skill-sharing, and a sense of belonging. Such initiatives play a crucial role in supporting mental well-being, combating social isolation, and promoting lifelong learning and creativity. The dedication of volunteers and the enthusiasm of members ensure that the shed will continue to thrive and benefit the Castle Douglas community for years to come.