A MEN'S Shed group in Romsey has unveiled its brand new base.

Joined by community leaders and civic chiefs, Romsey Men's Shed officially opened at Romsey School as it seeks to build relationships with the market town.

Despite the cold and wet weather, the shed was opened by mayor of Test Valley, cllr Carl Born-Neal alongside mayor of Romsey, cllr Ian Hibberd, councillor Mark Cooper and Colm McKavanagh, head teacher of Romsey School.

As previously reported, members had worked together on the concrete base of the shed, which was erected on site in a single day following grants from Test Valley Borough Council and the National Lottery.

Chairman Graham Gowman thanked the leaders of the community who attended for their support as the group looks to strengthen its links in the town.

He said: "After putting our efforts into building and fitting out our shed, we are now ready to move on to an exciting new phase.

"We look forward to welcoming new members, whether they prefer working together on practical projects that benefit the local community or sitting and enjoying a chat in friendly company."

Romsey Men's Shed is a group for older men where they can meet, socialise and work on practical projects that benefit the community.

The self-help group aims to counter social isolation and promote wellbeing and healthy lifestyles by engaging within the town.

As well as leaders and members of various councils, the opening was also attended by councillor Marianne Piggin from Test Valley Borough Council, and Jan Leffley, from Romsey Community Services.

Trustee Malcolm Kail added: "Men's sheds started in Australia in 1998, spreading rapidly and are now to be found all over the world.

"Anyone who wants to find out what sheds are all about can drop in on one of our open days between 11am to 3pm on April 3,4,6,10,11 and 13 at Romsey School.