A SHED with a difference in Whitecroft has scooped a national competition.

It beat more than 470 other “out-houses” to take the runner-up slot in Shed Fest 2018 and the group behind it is now looking for more sheds to ‘work in’.

Forest of Dean Men’s Shed (FDMS) was only founded in 2017, but received the honour from the Men’s Sheds Association on Saturday (November 17) in Worcester.

Paul Head, FDMS chair, said: “The Shed offers a workspace where older people can work on practical projects with others.

“It’s a comfortable place where you can share skills, actively pursue hobbies, work on community projects and relax and have a laugh, knowing you are among friends.

“We undertake projects of benefit to individuals, other groups and the broader community.”

Secretary Jane Trout added: “This award is a testament to all the hard work from members, how much we have achieved in just a year and the fantastic amenity we have provided to the community.

“Since we were formed in 2017, membership, male and female and from Ross to Lydney, has grown and we’re now looking for additional venues.

“Our shedders joined up and brought tools in for sharpening, furniture for restoring, started some new construction projects, turned bowls on the lathe, made some stained glass sun catchers, created, polished and painted.”

Members are welcome from anywhere in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley area.

The club, a member of the Forest of Dean Dementia Action Alliance, is run by members who decide when they meet and what they do.

Workshop sessions run on a Thursday from 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to 5pm.

For more details, if you can offer a venue or if you have a community project that needs help, ring 01594 780170 or email [email protected]