A Community Shed is planned for Little Canfield, as part of a project to encourage retired men to take up new hobbies.

The Community Sheds project began in Australia where there are now over 2,000 established sheds, as part of the healthcare system. In the UK, two new sheds are opening every week.”

The project was described to Dunmow Rotary Club by Susan Hastings-Herbert, shed coordinator for the Council for Voluntary Service Uttlesford.

The scheme aims to create community spaces where retired men can meet to socialise, work together and shake off loneliness.

They might do woodwork, metalwork, gardening or crafts or fundraise for their community.

Mrs Hastings-Herbert said: “Community Sheds can give retired men a renewed sense of purpose. We plan to establish three Community Sheds in West Essex, including one in Little Canfield and other sites in Harlow and Epping. Help is needed to provide publicity, tools and materials to support the project.”

Contact Susan Hastings-Herbert on 01371 878400 or email shed.coordinator@outlook.com.