IRVINE’S Harbourside Men’s Shed are appealing for a second-hand Portakabin, shipping container, large shed or caravan to recycle as a place to gather for their members.

In an effort to encourage Men’s Health and Mental Wellbeing, the group want to use the space as a place to encourage projects like engineering and creative writing for local men to bond.

Ernie Kenny, chair of Irvine Harbourside Men’s Shed, said: “Members are brimming with enthusiasm and ideas but, without a ‘Shed’ and materials, we can’t get going.

“We desperately need prefabricated units we can upcycle into a place where members can make friends over a cup of tea and work on new community projects.

“We’re busy getting to know each other, planning our first projects, which will include gardening and creative writing, and officially forming our constitution.

“We are also asking if any local businesses could make a small fe stive donation enabling us to buy materials to build a shed or tools, workbenches, seating or heating facilities. We’re looking for more members too.

“Joining Irvine Harbourside Men’s Shed is a great way of meeting new friends, learning new skills and helping make a difference.”

Jamie Menzies, Learning and Access Officer at the Scottish Maritime Museum, who helped set up the new Men’s Shed, added: “We’re very grateful for the generous support of North Ayrshire Council’s Community Development Team in setting up the Irvine Harbourside Men’s Shed.

“Now to get going and help make a difference to local men and the community as a whole, we need a little practical or financial help.”

Anyone who can help should email mensshedharbourside@gmail.com or telephone Jamie at the Scottish Maritime Museum on 01294 278283