By Isle of Wight Observer
Local members of the Nettlestone and Seaview Men in Sheds noticed that the beautifully crafted village signs of Seaview, Nettlestone and Pondwell were badly in need of restoration. The local Shed group rolled their sleeves up to bring the signs back to life.
Island Roads stepped in to help remove and deliver the heavy wooden signs and local artist Marion Rodrigues offered to restore them.
Rob Webb, Shed co-ordinator commented: ‘Marion’s artwork on the signs is stunning and her attention to detail has highlighted the intricacies of the original wood carving. Marion has now been invited to join our group as we very much wish to include women.’
The Nettlestone and Seaview Shed only formed at the beginning of the year but they have already tackled a number of exceptionally worthwhile local projects including repainting a playground shelter in the local primary school and restoring benches in the area.
Lois Prior, Shed co-ordinator for AgeUK IW added: ‘The ethos of the Shed groups (more commonly known as Men’s sheds) is to engage with local residents (men and women) interested in using their skills, and learning new ones, for the benefit of not only themselves, but also the community they live in. Woodwork, general DIY, art, craft and repair work are some of the activities shed members can take part in.’
There are sheds located within the community right across the country, all with the aim of reducing social isolation by giving people from all walks of life a place to learn, socialise, create and achieve.
Although there are several Shed groups on the Island the local group may be unique as they currently have no workshop or ‘Shed’ to call their own. The group are currently applying for funding to help with the construction of a shed and are waiting to hear about planning permission for a small workshop area to be located at Seagrove playing fields.
The group would like ask anyone locally who might have usable space that could be used for a temporary home for Nettlestone and Seaview Shed, or who may be interested to join to contact them at netaseashed@gmail.com or call Rob on 613693.
