by Sam Hawcroft
Hedon & District Men in Sheds has renewed its appeal for suitable premises after a potential location fell through following about four months of discussions.
The group, which was formed last year with the aim of establishing a workshop serving communities across South Holderness, said the property owner it had hoped to work with had now withdrawn its letter of intent.
Since the beginning of this year, the charity has considered 15 possible locations and made detailed inquiries about three of them, but is continuing its search for a permanent base.
A spokesman said: “After about four months of discussion, the property owner with whom we have tried to partner has withdrawn its letter of intent.
“Since the beginning of 2026, we have looked at 15 locations, with detailed inquiries about three of them. So, we are disappointed, but continuing to search for premises for our workshop for Hedon & District Men in Sheds.”
It is looking for a permanent space of between 30 and 70 square metres, preferably with electricity and water, which could be used as a workshop.
The spokesman added: “If you know an available permanent physical space with a floor area of 30-70 square metres, preferably with electricity and water, we would appreciate passing along that information.
“As a charity, we are limited by funds available within our budget. We continue to meet socially every week at the Hedon Royal British Legion, and look forward to serving the South Holderness community from our own shed.”
Plans for the group began taking shape during 2025 after Thorngumbald-based Ian McColm and Preston-based Tom Sporney identified a gap in Men in Sheds provision around South Holderness and East Hull.
Three organisational meetings were held in Ryehill, Preston and Hedon during the summer of 2025, with 35 people expressing an interest. Trustees were subsequently appointed and the group’s application to the Charity Commission was approved.
Men in Sheds projects provide a place for people to meet, share skills and work on practical projects, with activities often including woodworking and repairs. Despite the name, groups are not exclusively for men.
Speaking when the project was launched last year, Ian said: “We want it to become like the Repair Shop on TV, but on a smaller scale. People will be able to bring stuff to us instead of putting it in the bin, and we can try to do something with it.
“It might be that one person can’t do anything, but there may be others who will be able to do something special with it. We also want to work with the wider community such as the businesses, and the parish councils.”
Anyone who may know of suitable premises can contact the group at [email protected].