The new Moffat and District Men’s Shed at Unit 5, Holm Estate,has officially opened.

SNP South Scotland MSP Joan McAlpine was invited to cut the ribbon by the shedders in thanks for her long-term support for the project and intervening to help them secure their new premises from Dumfries and Galloway Council.

Previously, they had been on part of the Moffat CAN’s old depot site in Church Place after some residents decided in 2018 to get together and create a community haven for blokes with time on their hands.

The project is one of 131 sheds across Scotland which now have more than 2,400 members.

Describing their new home as “a 5 star Man Shed,” chairman Dick Monaghan said they are “more happy at our new location.”

He said: “We have taken on one hell of a task but we are masters of our own destiny, we now operate in a safe and secure environment.”

They now plan to open it to “as many parts of the community as we can” and that could include a Hen’s Shed in the future.

At the moment, thanks to having broadband facilities, they are also providing online tutorials on their Facebook page.

Mr Monaghan said: “We can’t thank Joan enough for all the support she’s given us, especially helping secure our new building here in Moffat.

“She’s been on board with the project right from the start and we’re really pleased she was able to come along today to officially open our new shed and present us with another generous donation.”

The MSP took the opportunity to hand over a cheque for £150 – money earned from Ipso Mori who carry specialist surveys and donate to a charity of the MSP’s choice.

Ms McAlpine said: “I’m a huge fan of the Men’s Shed movement so I was delighted to be invited to open the new one in Moffat. These sheds perform an important role in our modern societies, rejuvenating communities, combatting loneliness and social isolation and promoting physical activity. The sense of camaraderie amongst these men is a joy to witness.

“They’ve done a fantastic job getting this space together. Most of the internal construction was carried out by themselves and they’ve installed an impressive range of woodworking equipment, a welding area, loads of storage spaces, a new kitchen and a space to socialise when it is safe to do so.

“They even have plans to run workshops for others to come along and learn new skills.”

Call 07894038153 or email: dickmonaghan@hotmail.com.