A PIONEERING project to tackle bring people together has proved so successful that it looks set to expand.

The Inverclyde Shed, which runs a craft workshop in Captain Street, has made such an impact in the local area that the group is applying for funding to secure its future.

Bruce Newlands, chairman, says they hope to secure between £50,000 and £75,000 for the project over the next five years.

He said: "We have been here for one year in our community training space and we are now looking at other project spaces and expanding.

"We are in the process of applying to become a charity and we are also about the apply for National Lottery funding for the next five years.

"If we get that it makes it easier for us to do more projects."

The workshop offers opportunities for people to meet and take on creative, physical and recreational activities.

It has 35 full members and 98 associate members including a wide range of retirees, craftspeople, ex-servicemen, professionals, photographers, programmers, engineers, architects, carpenters and others.

Hector Crawford, 83, from Larkfield, says he no longer feels lonely after getting involved in the project.

He said: "I have been coming along since November.

"I have enjoyed meeting people, making jokes and having a wee cup of tea and a biscuit.

"I've been breaking down pallets and making bird boxes and feeding tables.

"Before I came here, I felt isolated but this has helped me a lot.

"It has got me out the house."

George Banks, who is the secretary of the project and a founding member of the group, told the Tele that it has changed his life.

The 63-year-old from Greenock said: "I come from a military background as I was in the army for 25 years.

"I had mental health issues including anxiety and depression.

"I was one of those guys who locked themselves away.

"After my treatment with the Combat Stress charity I was told to go and join a Men's Shed so I helped to start it up.

"It's been part of my therapy and recovery - it gives a sense of purpose and a sense of belonging."

George said it's a very exciting time for the organisation.

Laughlan Smith, 48, from Gourock, said the Inverclyde Shed has had a huge impact on him.

He said: "I have had some health issues around sleeping - sleep apnoea.

"But since coming here, I have been sleeping better and the weight has been coming off me and I have more energy.

"The lads are a really nice bunch."

The Inverclyde Shed is open to men or women over 18 and membership costs £10 a year plus a £1 donation every visit which covers unlimited cups of tea/coffee and some biscuits/cake and helps to cover the basic running costs of the shed on a day to day basis.

To join visit www.inverclydeshed.co.uk