A MEN'S shed group has sprung into life after a cash boost from community bosses.

North Baddesley's Men's Shed has received a £1,000 injection to contribute towards its start-up costs.

Councillors from North Baddesley are supporting the group to fund tools, materials and safety equipment for their inclusive workshops.

Men's sheds are community spaces for men to connect, converse and create, and the North Baddesley group, which is based at the village hall, meets every Tuesday from 2pm until 4pm.

Members are given an opportunity to meet like-minded people and have somewhere to share their worries, experiences and develop new skills and knowledge.

North Baddesley ward members, cllr Ann Tupper, said: "We are delighted to support North Baddesley Men's Shed, which provides both a meeting place and workshops for carrying out practical projects for the benefit of its members and the local community."

The group has already received enquiries about undertaking a number of projects across the local community.

The funding itself has come in the form of a councillor community grant, which is a Test Valley Borough Council scheme launched to help fund community-led initiatives. Councillors from across the borough can allocate funds to projects that they identify as meeting a need in the area based on feedback and ideas from residents.

David Middlewick, from North Baddesley Men's Shed, said: "With generous help from our funders, we have created a place to feel at home and pursue practical interests. The shed aims to provide practical help, guidance and knowledge to others in the local community such as the village hall, youth clubs, charities and community groups."