Two Suffolk charity projects shortlisted for 'Shed of the Year' awards

Both finalists are part of the Men's Sheds network - which help tackle issues like loneliness and isolation

Kessingland Men’s Shed volunteer Gareth Lloyd
Author: Matt SoanesPublished 15th May 2023
Last updated 15th May 2023

Two East Suffolk charity projects have been nominated in the prestigious 'Shed of the Year' awards

Lowestoft Men’s Shed is shortlisted in the category of Shed of the Year category, while Kessingland Men’s Shed sees volunteer Gareth Lloyd also gets a nod.

The awards are run by the Men's Sheds network, a group of around 1,000 projects across the UK which help tackle issues like loneliness and isolation by getting men involved in activities in their communities.

The winners will be announced the House of Lords later this month, by Paralympic legend Baroness Tanni Grey Thompson.

When Gareth found out that he had been shortlisted he said: “This is amazing, I am absolutely over the moon to nominated."

“It is a real honour, and I am humbled by the attention.

“I work for the community and get great satisfaction of knowing I can still make a difference.

“Such recognition is a credit to all at Kessingland Shed and the work of Men’s Sheds nationally in improving people’s lives.”

Trevor Ayers, from the Lowestoft Shed, said: “The news that we had been shortlisted for the award came as a huge surprise.

“This nomination is a tribute to our members who have worked to create a community within 'The Shed' and their selfless hard work to combat loneliness and isolation among men and to bring the shed to the place it is today some six and a half years after its humble beginnings.

“It is an honour to be recognised as one of the best and we are so very proud to have been shortlisted.”

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