AN open day has been held to mark the success of a dynamic project which has transformed the lives of hundreds of people.

Men in Sheds were celebrating the opening of their their fifth shed in Winsford whilst Women in Sheds were heralding the launch of their second shed.

Both projects, which are part of Age UK Cheshire, officially opened earlier this month.

Amanda Hodgkinson, senior co-ordinator for Men in Sheds and Women in Sheds said: “There has been so much enthusiasm for the new Winsford shed. The turnout on Saturday just goes to show that this is what the older community in Winsford have been waiting for.

"We had the pleasure of showing many residents around the new building, which not only offers a fully equipped wood workshop with a dedicated woodturning room, but also an IT suite, a games room complete with pool table and board games, a photography studio, an arts, crafts and sewing room as well as kitchen facilities, ample relaxation areas and a garden.

"The sheds are so much more than just a woodmaking workshop. They are a space to socialise, share skills and knowledge, meet new friends and enjoy camaraderie as well as being a hub of the local community. They are essentially a youth club for the over 50s."

The new Winsford Super Shed has been funded by Brightlife Cheshire, one of 14 Ageing Better programmes set-up by The National Lottery Community Fund.

The Men in Sheds Project recently celebrated its 10th birthday. Age UK Cheshire originally adopted the idea from the Australian Mens Sheds project and launched the first Men in Sheds in Hartford in January 2009.

Since then more than 400 Men in Sheds have launched across the country.

Men in Sheds, Winsford is open from 10am to 4pm, Tuesday to Friday, whilst Women in Sheds, Winsford is open from 10am to 4pm every Monday.

Anyone over the age of 50 is welcome.

For more details contact Men in Sheds co-ordinator Neil Cobin neil.cobin@ageukcheshire.org.uk or pop in for a chat at Lorien House, Darnhall School Lane, Winsford CW7 1JR.