Men in Sheds charity group near Leamington gets new tools thanks to developer's donation

A Men in Sheds group near Leamington has been able to buy new tools thanks to a donation from a housing developer.

David Wilson Homes donated £300 to the Bishop’s Itchington Men in Sheds group to allow them to purchase a brand new wood lathe for the group that shares tools, resources and friendships.

The lathe will be used by the shed members to create circular wooden objects as they continue to develop their woodwork and teamwork skills within the group.

Originally founded in 2013, with 30 Men’s Sheds, the charity offers local men regular interactions, new and improved skills, and regular, active participation in activities they enjoy.

There are now 601 Men’s Sheds in the UK at present and 150 more in development.

Iveagh Carter, chairman at Bishops Itchington Men's shed, said: “The Bishops Itchington Men’s shed was inaugurated in 2017 to provide a meeting place for the residents of the local village and surrounding area.

"The shed provides an opportunity for members to socialise and undertake both community and private projects.

“The existing lathe is well used and has produced several bowls, handles and other decorative objects.

"The additional lathe funded by David Wilson Homes will be much needed asset, allowing multiple projects to be undertaken at the same time or allow teaching of skills to new members.”

The group are currently working on a range of projects including a hidden green space project to support the health and well-being of the community.

This project is in partnership with Hidden Green Space and will provide additional facilities including additional planting beds for local residents as we emerge from the pandemic.

Dominic Harman, managing director at David Wilson Homes Mercia, said: “As a leading developer, it is important we support and improve the surrounding communities in which we build, through collaborations with organisations and charities in the area.

“That’s why we’re delighted to have been able to donate some funding to the local Men in Sheds group to allow them to purchase more equipment and enhance the lives of even more families in the area.”