Called An Tobar Men’s Shed its name has significance beyond the sheds location. Joseph O’Reilly, the sheds secretary, explained in more detail where the name came from: “The shed was set up back in 2013, after a notice appeared in the local parish bulletin. The Holy Ghost Fathers are based in An Tobar, and it was them who gave us the shed space we needed. Fr Peter Conaty and Fr Pat Coughlin were really to the fore on that.”

The mission formerly had a working farm there, but many of the sheds had been disused for 20 years. They made the perfect fit for the shed and the name An Tober reflects that special relationship.

“The premises is one of our greatest strengths,” says Joseph, “because while some other sheds have to share a space, at the end of the day we can just drop our tools and close the door. Then when we come back and everything is just how we left it.”

The tools are certainly important to the shed, as the 20-strong group of men has a large interest in all things woodworking. In the past, they have made buddy benches for two local schools in addition to a range of garden furniture.

There is also a very keen interest from the group to participate in various projects, and many of the wares they produce are displayed annually at the Dunderry show. “They really are a very enthusiastic bunch,” Joseph explains. “We go on regular trips to places like Croke Park, as well as just enjoying the social element of it.”

For a rural area like Ardbraccan, An Tobar Men’s Shed provides a place where the members can meet to spend time and build friendships. “At the first-ever meeting, there were four people – but now that’s up to 20. We’re all between 60 and 80 and retired, so this is a very important social outlet for us,” Joe explains.

The shed meets once a week on a Wednesday from 10am to 2pm. Those interested in joining or finding out more about the pieces the men make can contact Joseph on 087 908 8945.