Men’s Shed on the move thanks to building firm
Surprise for group as company donates new unit
The members of Paisley Men’s Shed got more than they bargained for at their open day – as it was revealed a building company plans to donate a brand new base.
The group, which meets at the Star Project, was showing off their garden to members of the community when they were told the surprise news.
Generous company boss Allan Callahan, of Cruden Building, stepped up to hand the men a brand new container, near St Mirren’s stadium, after learning they needed a new site.
Cruden Building will provide and install the welfare container free of charge.
Gayle Brannigan, from the recently re- launched St Mirren Community Trust, helped facilitate the move.
She told the Paisley Daily Express : “Allan has been unbelievably generous.
“When I found out that the members of the Men’s Shed needed a welfare container, I said we had some grounds near the stadium that they could use and I would try to source the container for them.
“When I spoke to Allan, who is a big St Mirren fan, he said he might be able to help.
“He sent over three project managers to look at the site and I outlined some of the requirements the men have.
“Allan came back and said they could provide the whole thing for free.
“They would dig the foundations, lay the paving and supply the base, which is a self contained unit with its own generator power supply and work benches.
“It would cost between £25,000 and £30,000 and Allan and Cruden are giving it for nothing. It is amazing really. We are so thankful.”
The group of men found out about the new container this week and were absolutely delighted with the news.
Gayle added: “It was surprise fro them and we told them at the open day. “They couldn’t be happier. “They are such an inspiring group of men. Some of them have real talents. There are artists and filmmakers amongst them.
“Some have, for a variety reasons, become isolated and the shed is great way to connect with like minded individuals.”
Work on the new container will start next week and could be up and running before Christmas.
Men’s Shed are spaces where men and women can share interests and connect.