Inverclyde Shed in partnership project with men's shed in America

Members of the Shed were approached by Dr Dean Kirby, a member of Ruston Community Men's Shed in Louisiana for advice on making a traditional Scottish spurtle.

After finding out his ancestors were Scottish, experienced woodworker and turner Dean decided he wanted to make his own version of the utensil, which is used for stirring porridge.

He contacted the Scottish Men's Sheds Association and was put in touch with Inverclyde Shed regulars Liz Ness and George 'Barrie' Baker, who helped him design the wooden object.

Dean said the project was a fantastic learning experience.

He added: "Being of Scottish ancestry, I found myself interested in learning more about the traditional Scottish spurtle, a rod with decorative elements used by cooks since the 15th century.

"Liz and George from the Shed's pen and carving group were very generous with their time and knowledge and helped guide me through making my first spurtle.

"I soon discovered that there are numerous versions and uses - from the traditional Scottish spurtle used to stir porridge to the continental and American versions which are a combination of spoon and spatula used for stirring, lifting, turning and scraping."

Craftswoman Liz, who joined the Shed around 18 months ago, said it was rewarding to link up with Dean on the project.

She said: "Dean is clearly a very skilled turner already, he just needed some advice on the Scottish design elements.

"We shared photos via email and gave our suggestions for adjustments in the size and shape.

"He took to it really well and certainly had the skills required to turn out a perfect spurtle.

"We were delighted to be involved."

Liz hopes the US partnership could be the start of many more international projects.

She added: "It's lovely knowing that Inverclyde Shed is now known in America.

"There's a lot of potential for us to make good connections with Sheds all over the world."