Community group in South Molton looking for new members

Men's Shed South Molton is reaching out to welcome new members into its group.

Founded in 2017 through a collaboration between Age UK Devon, the South Molton Rotary Club, and visionary individuals like Walter Stephens, Men's Shed South Molton has quickly become a place of connection and creativity in the local area.

The Men's Shed movement traces its roots back to a story from the early 1990s in South Australia. 

Witnessing her father's struggle with depression following a heart attack, a caring daughter discovered solace for him in his shed. 

This inspired the creation of communal workshops, or "sheds," where men could gather to connect, converse, and create.

Since then, the Men's Shed movement has spread globally, with sheds established across Australia, New Zealand, Europe, North America, and beyond. 

In the UK alone, there are over 1300 sheds, according to the UK Men’s Shed Association.

Contrary to its name, Men's Sheds are not just about physical structures; they represent vibrant hubs of social connection and purposeful activity. 

Participants come together to engage in a variety of projects, from woodworking to community initiatives, fostering bonds of friendship and support along the way.

Men's Shed South Molton embodies this ethos, offering a welcoming space for men of all backgrounds and abilities.

Situated in a former Methodist chapel, refurbished by its members, the shed provides a conducive environment for collaboration and skill-building.

Walter said: “For the first 2 years we  used the 1st South Molton scout hut in Southely Road every Wednesday morning. Having to transport workbenches and tools every week was not ideal, a new home was desperately needed. 

“The search was on. Eventually a permanent home was found in a former Methodist chapel, which was offered to the Men’s Shed by the Town Council, and thanks to the talents of the men it is there to support, has been completely refurbished with a brand new floor above and new flooring below, handmade tool stores and benches in-between. It was formally opened in September 2019.”

From crafting bird boxes and hedgehog ladders to repairing furniture and garden tools, there's no shortage of projects to engage in. 

Walter Stephens, a committee member and founding figure of Men's Shed South Molton, encourages prospective members to explore the camaraderie awaiting them. 

He said: “Come on in and discover the camaraderie waiting for you," he says. "They have an open-door policy and welcome anyone during their open hours to come and say hello. They look forward to meeting you.”

The group has an open door policy meaning anyone is welcome during their opening hours. 

For those interested in joining, Men's Shed South Molton opens its doors every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 10am to 1pm. 

The shed is located at the Cemetery Workshop on Mill Street, EX36 4AR.