CHERITON Fitzpaine Ladies Evening Organisation (CLEO) welcomed Steve Halson to their most recent meeting, to explain about “The Martial Art of Manliness”.

Steve had moved to the village from Oxfordshire four years ago and found that, although there were several groups for women, apart from a walking group and various sports, there was nowhere where men could get together to talk about things that concerned them and also work with their hands.

Ably assisted by fellow member Ian Babb, who helps people with their computers, Steve explained to us the aims and objectives of the group.

There was already a “Shed Shop” in the grounds of the Methodist chapel, and when the chapel had to close, the shop embarked on a planning and fundraising exercise to take over the building.

A group of men started meeting in the former schoolroom, and were able to embark on some projects to help the community.

Apart from maintaining the churchyard, they have become experts in erecting marquees for village events and have built an indoor gazebo for the village school. Their hedgehog houses are very popular, and they have made picnic tables and benches.

“Men in Sheds” started in Australia for ex-forces members by a lady, Maxine Tracey. One of the members went to New Zealand on holiday, found a “Men in Sheds” and visited them. Cheriton Fitzpaine are now twinned with them.

Meetings are on Wednesday mornings from 10 am with an exchange of information over tea and cake. The only criteria for joining is that you are a man, AND you can drink a cup of tea or coffee.

Telephone Steve for more information: 07802 753474.

Mary Nunn