A GROUP of helpful handymen brought smiles to children’s faces when they presented them with a new outdoor classroom.

The Barrhead Men’s Shed group were called upon by Madras Nursery, in Neilston, to create some side panels and an entrance to a shelter in the garden.

Previously, the shelter had been open at the sides, leading to a problem with litter.

However, the shedders got to work – and now the youngsters have a place where they can safely hold classes and other activities while enjoying the outdoors.

Staff were so impressed with the new-look shelter that they asked the group if they could also fit coat-hooks inside the main nursery building.

Alex Storrie, chairman of Barrhead Men’s Shed, said: “This is what the men’s shed is all about – older people doing things for the next generation.

“I think the nursery is going to use that outdoor space as a classroom now. We’re in a time where children are encouraged to go outside as much as possible, so this will allow them to do that in all weathers.

“This project kept us occupied and the guys have had great fun making all the different parts.”

Barrhead Men’s Shed provides a space for retired men and women to meet, socialise and share skills in the likes of DIY, woodwork and painting.

It is open to men and women who live in East Renfrewshire, with meetings taking place at 9 Robertson Street on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, from 10am until 1pm.

Last week, we told how the shedders had been helping children at the Railway Cottage Nursery, in Barrhead.

They created a wooden rack so that little ones can store their wellies in a tidy manner after exploring their outdoor space, as well as making a giant wooden train set for the kids to play with.

Alex added: “Anyone who is over the age of 18 can join the men’s shed, including women, and we are always looking for new members.

“There are lots of lonely people out there and we want to help.”

For more details, visit https://barrheadmensshed.weebly.com.