South of Scotland MSP Emma Harper visited the Men’s Shed in Dalbeattie with Cllr Rob Davidson, Deputy Leader of Dumfries & Galloway Council ahead of the upcoming Dalbeattie civic celebrations.
Emma and Rob were guided by Geoff Allison and had conversations about the work that the Men’s Shed does in and around the community. Emma and Rob then met with the group for the mandatory 11am tea and biscuit break, and Emma provided the biscuits for the visit.
The Men’s Shed offers men the opportunity to join them to participate in activities such as carpentry, welding, bike repair and gardening whilst sharing tools and resources and enjoying social interaction. The Men’s Shed also engages with the local community to assist with various projects in the area.
Commenting on the visit, Ms Harper said:
“I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to the Men’s Shed on Thursday to learn more about the great work they do to engage with men in Dalbeattie and surrounding area.
“During the visit Geoff showed us the famous Dalbeattie orange cats which they are repairing with fresh paint and fitting bright lights so that the cats will be ready for the civic day.
“The Men’s Shed have various different tools such as saws, drills and there are facilities for picture framing and engraving. This gives those attending the opportunity to learn new skills, and share skills they have with other people in the group.
“The Dalbeattie Men’s Shed is located at the old Stelrad site just outside of Dalbeattie, and has been there for just over two years. The Men’s Shed has proved to be an invaluable service to men, particularly older men, who have benefitted from social interaction whilst learning a new hobby.
“I would encourage anyone interested to make contact with Geoff and the group to find out more, they can be found on their “Dalbeattie Men’s Shed” Facebook page. Alternatively, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me and I can link you up with the group.”
Cllr Rob Davidson added:
“Dalbeattie Mens’ Shed is incredibly community focussed. They do things which are good for their members, give them practical interests and offer the chance to make friends, but along the way they have also managed to do a fantastic amount of good work for Dalbeattie, from refurbishing the town’s Christmas lights to providing equipment for the annual Civic Day celebrations and much more besides. They are a great asset to Dalbeattie.”
