Dungiven Men's Shed to host 5k walk/run fundraiser

A 5k walk/ run will take place in Dungiven this weekend, on November 2. Kicking off at 10am, the 5k will be in aid of the local men’s shed.

The event will start from St Canice's GAC club car park and finish at the Men’s Shed base on 170a Main Street, Dungiven.

Refreshments will be provided to participants.

The Men’s Shed provides recreational facilities and advances the social needs, health and well-being of men over 18 years of age and from all backgrounds living in the Dungiven and surrounding areas.

This fundraising effort comes after concerns over funding for Men’s Shed groups in the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough have been raised over the past few months.

Raymond Brady from Dungiven Men’s Shed said the walk is a way of fundraising but also a vital way of raising awareness and a reminder for the community that they are there for whoever needs them.

Raymond said: “We had an open day last weekend and it was very well attended by the community. We managed to get a few new sign ups which is great. We are running with about 40 members at the minute. We have a good turnout on a Tuesday for Guitar lessons. Then, on a Wednesday, we have cooking demonstrations. It is a useful learning skill for men who are living on their own. Along with all that we have a great workshop at the minute. We managed to get funding last year from the Housing Executive for tools so we have quite a comprehensive workshop. We do quite a lot of work for local charities, churches and schools. We have made a lot of outdoor furniture for schools, such as Drumsurn, where we made planters, benches and a storytelling chair for the teacher.

We would also have people leaving in benches to be refurbished, it is like something you would see on the TV show The Repair Shop. We are certainly kept busy, which is great. The community has been very generous and helpful in supporting us. I would like to thank them for that. The support has been great and we hope that continues.”