An initiative to encourage men and women to come together and work on building projects has arrived in Huntingdonshire.

The Hunts Post: The Ramsey 'Men in Sheds' group is looking for new members. Picture: CONTRIBUTED.The Ramsey 'Men in Sheds' group is looking for new members. Picture: CONTRIBUTED. (Image: Archant)

Based on the Men’s Sheds idea which started in Australia, RamShed invites those out of work or at the end of their careers to share resources and develop projects for either themselves, the group’s shed or their community, at their base in Bury.

The aim is to combat social isolation, boredom and depression by giving members a chance to socialise and make new friends, as research has shown the negative effect solitude has on health and wellbeing.

Chairman Mick Arthur explained the reasoning behind starting up RamShed.

He said: “I went to Australia and [the Men’s Sheds association] over there is very good, so I thought I’d set up a local one here.

“RamShed is important in several ways. It gets people out, learning new skills and helping the community.”

Mr Arthur explained how the group mainly works with wood, but is looking to branch out into using other mediums too. As well as their material range, RamShed is also aiming expand its membership.

He said: “We have around 23 members now, and we hope to grow bigger.”

If you are interested in finding out more about the group, call the secretary on 07950 978280, or visit the website for more information: www.hugofox.com/community/ramsey-cambridgeshire-men-s-shed-13654/about-us.