Rochfortbridge Men’s Shed was set-up in 2014 by current chair Willie Manning.

“I came across a stall at a festival in Wicklow. I asked the lads what this ‘Shed’ business was all about. Having explained the background to me, I found that I was interested. They invited me to visit their premises. When I went to visit their shed I was flabbergasted to see it was located in the house my parents lived in 1935.

“Having weeks before decided to look for something to get me off the couch at home on my 75th birthday, I was determined to try find something similar in my local area. I approached a few men, I casually met on the street with the proposition of start a Men’s Shed and it all started from there.”

At first the shed members were unable to secure a suitable premises, they were initially welcomed by the local pitch and putt club to meet in their clubhouse. “This was the start we needed, subsequently our local club St Mary’s GAA granted us a lease for virtually nothing, we now operate from three porta cabins on the grounds”.

The shed is predominantly woodwork-based, the members make flower planters and park benches. “We also make bird-boxes and bat-boxes for individuals,” says Willie. “Another activity we practice a lot in the shed and we are all very good at is drinking tea,” laughs Willie.

The shed members are heavily involved in the local community and are lately lending a hand to the vibrant Tidy Towns group in cleaning up the local area.

Regarding mental health, Willie believes all members have the same views.

“We all agree that everything we do stimulates the mind in some way. We constantly discuss new ideas and proposals and if this is good for mental health then so be it.”

The shed is open every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10.30am-1pm. Anyone interested in joining the shed is asked to contact Willie on 087 2940874 or contact the secretary Jack Doyle on 087 2867884.