IRVINE Harbourside Men’s Shed is inviting everyone to find out more about the opportunities on offer at a fun and informal open day tomorrow (Tuesday, November 19).

The event, which takes place between 10am and 3pm at the Shed at Unit 36b 29 Kyle Road, Irvine Industrial Estate (KA12 8LE), is part of the first ever Scottish Men’s Shed Open Doors Day.

The national event has been co-ordinated by the Scottish Men's Sheds Association to mark International Men’s Day.

Part of the worldwide growing Men’s Shed movement, the Irvine Harbourside Men’s Shed was set up in 2018 to give local men of 18 years and over the opportunity to come together around activities that you can find in a garden shed and in ways which benefit their health and mental wellbeing.

Activities include woodworking projects such as garden furniture and planters.

Irvine Harbourside Men’s Shed is keen to welcome potential new members as well as showcase the fruits of recent projects.

During the event, visitors can take a tour of the facilities and chat over a cuppa.

There will also be a pen making demonstration showcasing work by members who recently painstakingly crafted a collection of pens from different woods, polishing them to a beautiful finish. 

The pens, which are all one of a kind, and a collection of models made by the ‘Shedders’ will also be available to buy for those shopping for Christmas or treating themselves.

The Men’s Shed movement began in Australia in 2005 and the Scottish Men’s Shed Association was established in 2009. 

Today, there are 200 Sheds across Scotland and this dedicated association inspires and supports all of Scotland’s Shedders with lifelong and life wide learning experiences. 

Men’s Sheds are membership based and managed and developed by the men involved.

All equipment and facilities are free to use and there is no membership fee. 

Facilities at Irvine Harbourside Men’s Shed include a workshop with tools, workbenches and resources.

The group meets from 10am-3pm three times a week. Tuesday and Thursday is mainly for those who use the workshop for larger projects. Wednesday is largely for modellers, small woodworking projects and hobbyists. 

For more information about Irvine Harbourside Men’s Shed and the Open Day email harboursidemensshed.irvine@gmail.com.