Castle Douglas will launch its own men’s shed on April 10 – the day after a senior supporter celebrates his 87th birthday.
Previous attempts to establish a branch in the town foundered through lack of support.
But now Castle Douglas Development Forum futures team has secured suitable premises.
Home for the shed will be the former Unity Players building at Blackpark.
The move came after a free 12-month lease was agreed with the Fullarton Theatre.
TGB Gatehouse celebrates after receiving more than £86,000 from National Lottery's Young Start fund
Among those delighted at the the news is Jackie Crawford, who turns 87 on April 9.
Jackie, a former fire security officer at Kirkcudbright, told the News: “It is badly needed. A lot of people have asked me when is the shed coming. I just told them as quickly as possible.
“There are men’s sheds all round about Castle Douglas. Balmaclellan has a cracking shed and so has Dalbeattie. So this is not before time. I would think up to 20 folk would use ours.”
Jackie added: “Once it’s up and going people will talk about it. Then more might come in from outlying villages.
“We have said to the theatre group when the shed is up and running and they want some scenery built we would be more than willing to do that for them.
“But it’s not just about sharing skills – it’s a social thing as well. You can stop any time for a cup of coffee and a biscuit and a blether.”
The shed will be officially launched in the British Legion on Market Hill on April 10 at 7pm.
And Cliff Robertson of the futures team stressed that the event was open to all.
He said: “Both men and women are very welcome to come along and get involved.
“The forum is keen to see a high level of interest and support. All that is needed is enthusiasm and the rest will follow.”
