Birr Men’s Shed was founded in 2017, by Greg Smyth and Brendan O’Rourke, who recognised the need for a shed for members of the community. The members hail from a variety of backgrounds, and are aged 60 and over.

In the past month, the shed has moved premises – just a stone’s throw from where they were previously, now situated at John’s Mall, Birr.

“It’s all about community-based projects,” Greg says. The group works very closely with Birr Tidy Towns, helping by fixing and painting the benches around the town.

They are also one of 10 groups that are taking part in a Tidy Towns competition in the area. The group also hopes to get involved in the local Mental Health Centre in the future.

It’s all about picking up new ideas from each other

They have visited Salthill and Athenry Men’s Sheds, a trip which Greg says has given them plenty of ideas for the future. Among those ideas is a garden, which he hopes will draw in new members.

“It’s all about picking up new ideas from each other,” Greg said, adding that “no two sheds are the same”.

At the moment, the shed members repair garden benches that local people drop in, as well as constructing dog boxes to order.

Birr Men’s Shed attended the Irish Men’s Sheds Gathering in Cork last year, which the whole shed thoroughly enjoyed. He also wishes to thank George Quinn, who is the local shed support volunteer for his continued help.

Anyone interested in joining Birr Men’s Shed is asked to contact Greg on 086-893 3627 or call down to Birr Men’s Shed on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10am and 4pm.

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Men's Sheds: keeping tradition alive