A CITY group is having a real impact on its surrounding community.

Men’s Shed Worcester is now housed in its own refitted workshop with a liveried electric van proudly displaying its name and an ever-growing list of people who are wanting to join.

Based in the crypt in St Clement’s Church in Henwick Road, Men’s Shed Worcester is celebrating a National Lottery grant award which has enabled members to buy their own vehicle.

The charity’s activities allow members to feel valued and to continue to use their lifelong skills as well as learning new ones and, most importantly, making new friends.

The group provides vital support for the health and well-being, both physical and mental, of all those involved.

Chairman Colin Bunce takes up the story of the Men’s Shed Worcester which is part of a national, even international, network.

He said: “We started in 2021 with six members.

“We now have over 30 men meeting regularly on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.

“The initial focus of the charity was to refit the church crypt and to turn the space into a useable workshop for woodworking, metalworking and refurbishing furniture. However, the charity is now able to collect, repair and refurbish furniture to either sell on or to donate to families in need.

“Saving useable furniture from landfill is an added bonus of the charity’s work.

“The furniture is often donated by local social housing associations such as Sanctuary which we can now collect using our new van.

“We have some very happy customers, some very happy members and we feel we are doing our bit to support the recycling agenda.”

Colin added: “Men’s Shed Worcester is mostly about the friendship, camaraderie and support — we just do it whilst keeping our hands busy and giving back to the community.”

This award is yet another win too for Community Boost, the local organisation which has helped generate over £2 million in grant funding for local charities and community organisations.

Community Boost is also being supported by Worcester City Council’s community grants programme.

The funding is helping Boost to work with any city-based voluntary and community group over the next 12 months.

Anyone keen on joining the group can call in on any Tuesday or Thursday morning or contact info@mensshedworcester.co.uk.