Despite all the public health restrictions, 2021 was an active year for members of Donabate Portrane Men’s Shed. Our plots at Turvey Allotments have been the mainstay of our activities. In April, we took on a second plot. Thanks to grants from Fingal County Council, Fingal LCDC, Fingal Camber, Tesco and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the hard work of our members, the once neglected patch was transformed into a well organised and productive plot. Briars, brambles and weeds were removed; the ground was dug and manured; a new polytunnel was erected; raised bed and pathways were installed and a bountiful harvest was produced.But our activities were not confined to tending the allotments. When the weather permitted during the spring and summer months, members met on Portrane Green to enjoy take-aways from Pipers’ and at ‘The Shoreline’ for a coffee. Later in the year, we met on Thursdays at the back of the Scouts’ Den and even had a demonstration by the Barn Owl Project there. Due to colder weather and rising concerns about Covid, these gatherings were suspended. In co-operation with Active Age for All and thanks to Fingal County Council, we have secured a time-slot on Tuesday mornings for croquet at Newbridge House.We hope that we can soon get back to our previous activities– indoor gatherings for a cuppa and a chat, table tennis, exercise classes and visits to places of interest. If you are interested in joining us, please call Jim on 086-3694316.