IT was a special moment for the Gala Men’s Shed, as they took delivery of some much needed computer equipment last Thursday, April 9.

The group- celebrating its first anniversary in May- received the donation of surplus equipment from Robert McDade, Eildon Housing Association’s IT manager.

The men were delighted to receive the equipment which they said would be a great benefit to their project. They intend to use the equipment to help them in the day to day running and development of the Shed.

Nigel Sargent, Development Officer for Volunteer Centre Borders who, along with staff from NHS Borders Healthy Living Network, has helped to organise and facilitate the project to date has described the Men’s Shed as 'a complete success story.’ There have also been visiting representatives from groups in other parts of the country, curious to see if the idea can be replicated elsewhere.

The Shed gives the men a place to meet up, where they can spend time any way the want to. This may be simply having a cup of tea, a chat, or to take time to work together making craft items.

“Woodwork is just one of the options we provide,” explains Paul Bertram, one of the founding members of the initiative.

“People can come in and play darts, dominoes or even just read a book.” The Shed is open to men of all ages and backgrounds and membership is free. It is located in the former Borders Production Unit at the Langlee Community Centre, Galashiels and is open every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 1pm to 4pm.