Fakenham community shed is still hunting for home in town

Vic Gerrard is part of a four-man committee trying to establish a ‘community shed’ in Fakenham. The group has been left frustrated as two years of work has yet to bring them a permanent home.

Mr Gerrard said: “I’m annoyed and very frustrated, you put a lot of effort into something for it to backfire on you.

“But, we will not go down without exhausting every opportunity.

“We need premises, we have woodworking machinery all ready to go in somewhere. If we can find a property either already erected or somewhere we can put a shed of our own, then we would be well away.”

Mr Gerrard was inspired by his brother who created similar clubs.

The Men’s Shed is a national organisation which tackles isolation in the community and provides a space for people to do woodwork and other crafts, build friendships and enjoy a cup of tea.

Work on the shed started at Pinewise of Fakenham last November - But Vic said plans fell through early in 2023 (Image: Vic Gerrard)

The group started work on building a shed at Pinewise of Fakenham - but this fell through in early 2023. Plans to establish a base at a second location also fell through.

The group already has 16 members signed up.

Debi Haden, community connector for Fakenham and Wells at North Norfolk District Council, said: “Fakenham already lacks the support it needs so anything we can all do to improve this situation can only be a good thing.

"I have urged town council members to research men’s shed and men's mental health and get behind Mike, Vic, and the members to help them find their space.

“These guys have my utmost respect as despite the continual knockbacks they’ve faced they stay focused on improving the support for everyone in the Fakenham area.”

To join the group or find out more, visit fakenhamcommunityshed.org.uk or Fakenham Community Shed on Facebook.