Sun-kissed open day brings out the crowds for East Kilbride Mens’ Shed

NICOLA FINDLAY

The sun came out for an action-packed open day at East Kilbride Mens’ Shed which drew in the crowds.

There was everything from raffles and a coconut shy to demonstrations of what the project – aimed at reducing loneliness and isolation – involves.

It was opened by the daughter of renowned alternative therapist the late Dr Jan de Vries, Tertia Molenar.

The group hold annual open days but also a number of events throughout the year in a bid to raise awareness of their important work.

Based in College Milton they are among a network of Mens’ Sheds throughout South Lanarkshire which have become increasingly popular in recent years.

They are community spaces for men to connect, converse and create. The activities are often similar to those of garden sheds, but for groups of men to enjoy together.

All ages are welcome although a lot of those who attend are men who are retired and looking for a new way of socialising.

Chairman of East Kilbride’s Mens’ Shed, Bill Stewart, told the News: “The day went really well and we had a good turnout.

“The sun was shining and I think that was a major factor and helped everyone enjoy the day even more.

“There was plenty going on from a cake stall, a coconut shy, a wet sponge stall, book and plant stall and raffles.

“We were delighted to welcome along Tertia to officially open the day. We try to do as much as we can to engage with the whole community throughout the year just to raise awareness of what we do.”

Bill added: “We would like to thank everyone who came along and helped make the day such a success and for the support we had from local businesses including Green Grass Landscapes who gave us donations and whose staff helped us set everything up.”