“Holywood Men’s shed is extremely popular in the community. We have around 20 active member as well as another 20 fringe members,” said Bill Lockhart, honorary secretary of the shed and member of the Irish Men’s Shed board. “We’re part of the Holywood Shared Town initiative, with aims to bring everyone in the community closer by working together.”

Having initially struggled to find a suitable permanent location for the shed, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency provided them with a disused stable yard.

“Our first task was to get it under control,” Bill laughs, “there were weeds up to your shoulder.” Since then, they have gone from strength to strength. The yard now has seven wooden sheds that form the basis for the men’s workshops. One massive part of the shed, especially at this time of the year, is their polytunnel. Here the men run their gardening project.

“We grow bedding plants that we then sell at local shows and events along with bird boxes and other craftwork. That helps us to fund the shed.”

Recently they had a stall at the Merry May Day event in Holywood where their planters proved immensely popular.

“In addition to the plants, we’re also involved in woodturning, arts and craft and a lot of restoration work.”

Bill is keen to point out how important the shed is to people: “It does so much to promote mental health and wellbeing among men. It’s a safe place for them, somewhere they can come and feel relaxed. I’d describe it as a haven.

“We welcome anyone over the age of 18 and we even have a few female members. Some are retired, some are lifetime members, while others only come for a few weeks when they are going through a hard time.”

The shed is open seven days a week from 11am to 5pm. Located in the Redburn Country Park, Old Holywood Road, Holywood, those interested in joining or finding out more about the shed can contact Bill on 0044-7785 106890.