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Members of Rostrevor Men's Shed have returned from London after being shortlisted for a Special Recognition Award at the prestigious Shed of the Year Awards held in Westminster. The nomination, which came in the group's 10th anniversary year, saw founder Mark Gibbons and PR Officer Gethin Hughes represent the County Down village at the Houses of Parliament.
The pair travelled to London on Thursday and were joined by South Down MP Chris Hazzard, who visited to wish them well ahead of the ceremony. Gethin had submitted the nomination to mark the decade long milestone and share the Shed's story with a national audience.
During their visit, the Shedders explored London, took in the atmosphere around Westminster, and exchanged ideas with other groups about community projects, wellbeing, and across community work in Northern Ireland.
While they didn't take home the top prize, the experience was incredible from start to finish. The UK Men's Shed Association Chair of Trustees told them their nomination was superb and that the final decision had been "a very tough call" due to the exceptionally high standard of entries this year. He added: "That was real reassurance that our work is recognised and valued at the highest level."
"It was humbling to stand alongside some of the best Sheds across the UK. We're proud of how far Rostrevor Men's Shed has come — from a few lads with a bird box in 2015 to managing a community centre and supporting hundreds of local people," Gethin said.
Mark reflected on what the recognition meant beyond the awards themselves. "Awards are lovely, but what matters most is the friendships, the skills shared, and the people we help every week. Being invited to Westminster was recognition enough, it shows the impact a small village Shed can make," he added.
"We didn't bring home a trophy, but we brought home something better, pride in who we are, and excitement for the next 10 years," Gethin said.
Rostrevor Men's Shed continues to welcome new members and works year-round on workshops, community projects, wellbeing activities, and managing the busy shared use centre at 16 The Square.
