BASED on the Men’s Shed concept that grew from an idea to provide a communal version of the typical garden workshop, Basingstoke Shed is a place to feel at home and pursue practical interests with a high degree of autonomy.

A “Shed” offers a group of people, usually men, where members share the tools, skills and resources they need to work on projects of their own choosing at their own pace and in a safe, friendly and inclusive venue.

They are places of skill-sharing, informal learning, individual pursuits, community project, purpose, achievement, social interaction, leisure and banter where older men, usually, come together to work and generally have a good, fulfilling time!

Basingstoke Shed is located at Everest Community Academy on Monday and Wednesday from 3pm to 6pm and also at Queen Marys College on Monday and Thursday from 3pm to 6pm where members can use the Shed’s space, collection of tools and, by arrangement, the academy’s extensive range of tools that include wood and metalwork lathes, pillar drills, band saws, a laser cutter and many more.

Both sites may be open at other times, but the core hours are those when someone is present to talk with potential new members and other visitors.

It is a not-for-profit organisation, is registered as a charity and looks forward to meeting new members. Alternatively, get in touch through one of the ways shown on the website at http://basingstokeshed.org.uk or via 07434 678104

To help promote the Shed project, tell the people you know or download the website promotional poster and display it where people will see it. The group has recently gained some new tools courtesy of the Mayor's Community Chest and look forward to making or repairing much more.