Old office desks get a new lease of life after Wightlink donates timber to Portsea Men’s Shed
19th February 2024
Unwanted wooden desks, donated by Isle of Wight ferry operator Wightlink, are being transformed into new items by the members of Portsea Men’s Shed.
Twenty pieces of good quality timber, up to a square metre in size, were identified after a refurbishment of Wightlink’s head office in Portsmouth, where they were part of built-in desks.
The community workshop, in Wickham Street, is a creative haven for around 30 members who enjoy taking part in woodworking projects of all kinds. It is a warm and welcoming social space where they can gather for friendly conversations over a cup of tea. The partnership reflects Wightlink’s commitment to building connections and contributing to the wellbeing of the local community.
The timber, delivered to the Shed by Havant-based office designers Spectrum, has already been used to make a tabletop and several chopping boards.
Andy Pottinger of Portsea Men’s Shed says: “We have space for members to work on repairs or projects and to learn new skills, giving these men a sense of purpose. We offer companionship too; many of our members have gone through loss or suffer from loneliness and it’s a place to come together. We’re very grateful for the materials donated by Wightlink – they will be put to very good use.”
Phil Delaney, Commercial Director of Wightlink, says “Reusing and recycling materials, whenever we can, is important at Wightlink and we are delighted our old office furniture is being given a new life within the community.”
ENDS
Picture caption: Portsea Men’s Shed regulars get to grips with Wightlink’s donated timber
About Portsea Men’s Shed
The Men’s Shed concept started in Australia around 1999 and there are now more than 2,000 Sheds around the world. Portsea Men’s Shed is based in Wickham Street, thanks to landlords Land Securities. It is part of the Southern Men’s Shed Network, which is a member of the UK Men’s Sheds Association. Opening times: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 09:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
For more information about Wightlink, please contact:
Duty Media Officer
07870906189
[email protected]