Hythe Shed at the pier announced as finalist in the UK Men’s Shed Association awards

A WATERSIDE men’s group has been shortlisted for a national award.

The UK Men’s Shed Association has picked Hythe Shed, which was founded in 2019 by Allan Fairhead, as a finalist in its ‘health and wellbeing’ category.

Other award categories include community project of the year, volunteer of the year and shed of the year.

Representatives from the group, based in a restored building alongside Hythe pier, will attend the awards ceremony later this month held in the state rooms of the Speaker’s House at the Houses of Parliament.

The group, which costs £10 per year to be a member, was set up to provide a space for men to socialise and help members with projects. Members are also heavily involved with the restoration of Hythe pier and its unique railway.

Group founder Allan Fairhead told the A&T: “Having started the shed in November 2019, I always knew we were needed in the village. To make the final, therefore knowing that my aims are fulfilled, is a fantastic feeling.”

Chair of the UK Men’s Shed Association trustees, Rob Lloyd, added: “Each year entries get better and better. With more submissions than ever, and of such a high standard, this year’s finalists have really highlighted the excellent work they are all doing in their local communities.

“We know how well Men’s Shed participation helps with loneliness, social isolation and both physical and mental health. These finalists demonstrate the breadth, depth and creativity of the projects they each undertake and the impact they have on participants and the wider community.”