BEXHILL’S Men’s Shed continues to go from strength to strength and has received both support and praise from Bexhill and Battle Conservative MP Huw Merriman.
Mr Merriman visited the Men’s Shed to hear about the charity and show support for their vital community work.
Men’s Shed is a grassroots organisation dedicated to providing a friendly and welcoming space for men to socialise and work on community projects.
As a result, the charity helps to combat loneliness and isolation. However, the current location of the Bexhill branch is on the HFS site in London Road which is now up for sale, meaning the charity will have to find a new home.
During the visit, Mr Merriman met Derek Merkl, chairman of Bexhill Men’s Shed, and its members to hear first-hand the positive impact the charity has on the community.
He recognised the importance of organisations like Men’s Shed in promoting mental health and wellbeing, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Bexhill Men’s Shed has been so successful that it gained 70 members in its first year.
Due to overwhelming demand, it now welcomes women on a dedicated Ladies Day and they also run a mixed-sex day.
The Shed’s members told the MP that they were keen to learn and develop practical skills such as DIY, carpentry, and engineering.
The members added they really enjoy being part of such a friendly and supportive group.
Mr Merriman said: “I thoroughly enjoyed meeting the members of Bexhill Men’s Shed.
“Derek Merkl and his team have created a fantastic project in the heart of Bexhill which provides a safe and welcoming place for people to share their interests and skills as well as providing friendship, support and certainly a lot of laughter whilst I was there.
“I saw first-hand some of the wonderful projects they have been working on.
“The Men’s Shed needs to find a new home in Bexhill and are also looking to start satellite projects in other parts of Bexhill to meet demand.
“I would like to be able to help them with their relocation and expansion plans so I would love to hear from anyone who may have some suitable land or space for this outstanding project.”
Mr Merkl added: “It was a great pleasure to meet Huw Merriman at our workshop. I am grateful for his support and the undoubted influence he will bring to our search for a new home.
“Bexhill Men’s Shed, which helps so many members and allows us to work with other charities and social projects in the town, is very appreciative of Huw’s support.”
