By Lisa Ramsden
People of all ages gathered at a special celebration in Kilcoo on Sunday, when the village’s Men’s Shed held its inaugural open day.
Offering a wide range of activities, the event provided not only a wonderful insight into the globally renowned Men’s Shed movement, but also an opportunity to appreciate its impact much closer to home. It was also the perfect occasion to showcase the former parochial house, which was purchased just two years ago by Kilcoo Regeneration Group Limited.
Now known as Kilcoo House, the building is central to the regeneration group’s vision. The registered charity, established three years ago, was set up with the prime purpose of acquiring the former parochial house and church hall — situated right in the heart of the village.
Thanks to the sterling efforts of the committee and supporters, the buildings have already become a valuable focal point for the community, hosting a wide range of events and regular gatherings, and with plans for much more to come.
Mabel McCarthy, company secretary, said the weekend’s open day was “a huge success” and a prime example of why so many locals had worked hard to secure the buildings.
Praising the efforts of the Kilcoo Men’s Shed, she added: “It was great to see people of all ages, and from across the area, visit and see for themselves not only the ‘shedders’, but also what the buildings can offer to them.”
In the full article there are more details about the projects that take place at the Men’s Shed, and updates on how the former parochial house was acquired.
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