The Metal Mariners Men’s Shed in Co Sligo was founded in 2016 by Brian Armstrong, Stephen Hession and Jon Evans. “I suppose the genesis of the whole thing was that three of us undertook a project to restore a number of mirror dinghies within Sligo Yacht Club at Rosses Point in 2015,” says Brian.

“Our shed is unique, as the main objective of our Men’s Shed is the promotion of water sports, particularly sailing. I and others became frustrated at the lack of promotion of the opportunities in the county, which has superb natural amenities for it, and this led to the formation of the organisation.

“As they go along, participants learn carpentry skills, the use of epoxy resins in the construction of the boats, painting, varnishing and rigging. We also teach members to sail the newly refurbished boats. In practice this is very empowering for our members who have not had access to this kind of activity previously.

The Metal Mariners Men’s Shed organised the Cranmore Regeneration Project. “Cranmore is an area of Sligo town, which has had some social problems. It is located close to the Garavogue river and Lough Gill.

“We hoped to demonstrate to the community there that the river and lake represented an amazing amenity and we hoped to reactivate a tradition of rowing and fishing and, indeed, boatbuilding that used to be prevalent there in the past. The Regeneration Project is promoted by Sligo Council with support and funding from the Department of Planning, Housing and Local Government.”

The members meet every Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm and every Saturday at 4pm to 6pm. “We have about 35 active participants, from all walks of life. Our structure is very open and all are welcome, provided they are prepared to commit to any given project and attend reasonably regularly.” Anyone interested in joining the Metal Mariners Men’s Shed is asked to contact Brian on 086 604 1478.