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Established in 2013 by chair Eamon Cassells alongside other dedicated community members, Athboy Men’s Shed has grown from strength to strength with 20 dedicated members. Speaking on behalf of the shed, secretary Martin Mangan explains how it all began.
“There is a great outlet for women through ICA groups. A lot of men out in the country don’t have much to do. This idea came to life with the support of Meath County Council. We were very lucky to have been given a premises at the old convent. The room we got was an old woodwork room, so it is ideal.
“I joined the group just after I retired from work, about three years ago. I was never a DIY kind of guy. I never really used my hands and I didn’t think I could to be honest. Since joining the shed I have learned to do so much more. I am delighted I joined.”
The group received a generous grant from Meath Partnership. The men used their funds wisely, to buy materials to restore the building front. It is only with the support of the community that the shed has been so successful, Martin claims.
“The group that used the building before us had a woodwork shop. They were so kind to leave us most of their equipment and machinery. This has saved us a lot of money and allowed us to use our skills in woodwork, welding and so on.”
I never really used my hands and I didn’t think I could to be honest. Since joining the shed I have learned to do so much more. I am delighted I joined
As well as getting involved in the local Athboy Tidy Towns initiative, the group is glad to support fellow men’s sheds across the country. Curragha locals enjoyed a visit to Athboy Men’s Shed recently, where they got advice and information before setting up their own shed. This camaraderie is typical of the whole men’s shed ethos.
With regular day trips and events to look forward to in 2019, the group recently enjoyed its annual Christmas dinner at the Darnley hotel.
The shed opens once weekly, on a Wednesday morning. New members are warmly welcome by all and encouraged to get in touch for further membership information by calling Martin on 087-1045228.
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