Men's Shed 16th September

The speaker was our own Club member, the inimitable Henry Paul. Over many years Henry has contributed hugely to many organisations in St. Andrews through both his hard work and his infectious enthusiasm. He has inspired many others to join him in worthwhile projects in the town. On this occasion he was speaking about the St Andrews Men’s Shed, a wonderful project aimed at encouraging men to come together to learn new skills and to apply these to helping various projects in the local community. Aimed primarily, but not exclusively, at men recently retired who are looking to fill their free time usefully learning practical skills which are then applied to making wooden articles such as chairs, bowls, etc, repairing garden machinery, bikes and much else. The group also works with other organisations in the community to improve the local environment and to assist with various projects. Henry outlined the history of the Men’s Shed in St Andrews, starting from its small beginnings with less than ten members to over sixty now and occupying a splendid, recently-constructed massive new shed at Craigtoun Park -a far cry from its humble beginnings at the back of the Botanics. Henry’s talk was peppered with amusing stories highlighting the key points in the organisation’s development. He stressed its valuable contribution to the well-being and happiness of many of its members. The Shed is unlike most garden sheds -it is sociable, welcoming new members to learn new skills. Such has been its success  here in St Andrews that it was runner up in Scottish Men’s Shed of the Year 2025. It is now getting well known for its work throughout the community and is much in demand from other organisations to assist with a wide range of valuable initiatives. Henry’s talk was much enjoyed by the Club and he was warmly thanked by fellow member, Michael Carslaw, who gave a very interesting and appropriate vote of thanks.