Carlow’s Men’s Shed is becoming accustomed to its newfound fame after appearing in a Tesco Christmas ad.

The shed, which was established in 2011, appeared on one of Tesco’s ads this Christmas, thanking their chef Tommy for the lovely food he made at their Christmas party. The advert has really raised the profile of the shed, according to member Leo Maher.

Based in Askea Business Park, O’Brien Road, Carlow, the shed has a big workshop and a canteen, where Chef Tommy whips up some delicious meals as good as the one described on the ad.

“We do a lot of carpentry work, making buddy benches for schools, which promote anti-bullying, and running repairs on request. We are not in competition with any of the locals and are a registered charity, so we work on donations,” Leo explains.

The group consists of 30 members aged 20 to 90 and all from different backgrounds.

“Some of the men are unemployed, others have disabilities and some are retired. It’s a great place for people to come and have a cup of tea. We have a stone mason amongst us and general labourers as well as retired professionals. There’s lots to learn in the workshop,” Leo says.

The shed’s main purpose is for men to come together and enjoy the company of others, according to Leo. The members of the shed go away on trips together including a visit to Collins Barracks in Dublin, the Titanic museum in Belfast and a trip around Wexford town.

Community is important to Carlow’s Men’s Shed and Leo talks about the work they do for Éist and Holy Angels in the town.

“If they are looking for something to be made, they normally buy the material and we will make it in the workshop,” Leo explains.

Carlow’s Men’s Shed also runs courses on mental health and first aid.

The shed opens from Tuesday to Thursday every week, 10.30am to 2.30pm, and new members are always welcome. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/carlowmensshed or call Leo on 087- 239 4019.