A place to get creative and chat

●● Name: Mike Greensmith. Name of project: Men in Sheds. Where do you live?: Wilmslow. The best thing about Macclesfield is?: Men in Sheds. My favourite place in Macclesfield is?: Men in Sheds. The worst thing about Macclesfield is?: The parking can be quite bad. What do you do?: I make things out of wood, including model boats, mini wheelbarrows and boxes. How long have you been doing your hobby?: On and off since I was seven years old. I used to make model aircrafts and model electric motors. What do you enjoy the most about doing this?: It’s been a lifetime interest. I’ve always enjoyed making things and doing DIY at home and I’m now enjoying Men in Sheds in retirement. How did you get started?: I saw an advert for Men in Sheds, rang up and here I am! What does it involve?: I generally call into Men in Sheds twice a week to work on a project. Do you do anything with your hobby?: I make items generally for my family and grandchildren, sometimes we make items to sell in the Age UK Cheshire East shop. What’s been your greatest achievement so far?: I made a very detailed model of a Norwegian fishing boat. Most funniest / memorable moment while doing this?: Every day funny things happen or are said, it’s a good ‘crack’ with all the banter in the shed. Any ambitions for the future?: I’ve had 45 years of ambitions running my own business – now I am retired I have short-term ambitions in woodworking. Anything else you would like to share?: Coming out twice a week gives me a purpose and the camaraderie keeps me bright and socially aware. I also get the chance to help other clients who have special needs, which I’ve found particularly rewarding. ●● AGE UK Cheshire East’s Men in Sheds project gives older men the opportunity to get together in a relaxing environment to share skills, experiences and decent conversation. If you fancy trying something new or have any questions, please call the men in shed team on 01625 660534 or email mis@ ageukcheshireeast.org.