Collingham Men In Sheds group to feature in TV documentary

A village project that aims to improve men’s social lives will be featured on national TV.

Collingham Men in Sheds provides activities and companionship for men who could become isolated or depressed because of bereavement, divorce, redundancy, retirement and other reasons.

It is part of a worldwide initiative set up in Australia.

Since being formed last year, Collingham Men in Sheds has recruited more than 20 members and attracted the attention of Isle of Wight-based documentary-maker Mr David George, who runs film company Utility Films.

Mr George, who is making a documentary about the Men in Sheds movement, spent nine hours talking to Collingham ‘shedders’ and filming their activities.

His Collingham footage is expected to make up a significant part of the programme, which will be aired on three Saturdays in November.

Mr John Leigh, chairman of Collingham Men in Sheds, said: “The members are excited to see the documentary. It will provide good exposure for us.

“David has been filming around the country and said Collingham was the best one he had been to.

“He told me documentary-makers should never get emotionally involved with the subjects they are filming, but he broke that rule on this occasion.”

Two members performed in front of the camera. Mr Louis Lovegrove played the keyboard and Mr Mornee Gill recited a poem he wrote about Men in Sheds.

The documentary will be broadcast on November 8 (8pm) November 15 (8pm) and November 22 (9pm) on the Community Channel.

The channel is at: Freeview 63, Sky 539, Virgin Media 233 and Freesat 651. The programme will also be available on BBC iPlayer.

Collingham Men in Sheds has been given £7,500 by Nottinghamshire County Council towards opening a third room for woodcarving and artwork.

The organisation is based off Station Road, courtesy of Collingham-based Gusto Homes.

More information is available from Mr Leigh on 01636 892606 or 07946 600947 or by emailing john@leigh-david.freeserve.co.uk