Donabate Portrane Men’s Shed was involved in two events on the same day as part of Fingal Inclusion Week.

The first was a gathering in Donabate Portrane Community Centre of members of the Fingal Men’s Sheds, organised by the Irish Men’s Sheds Association and sponsored by Fingal County Council. Entertainment by provided by Gerry and the Plonkers, Donabate Portrane Men’s Shed music group, and a group of musicians from Swords Men’s Shed. There was also a light exercise session led by our own Fintan Delaney and a light-hearted, but insightful, talk by writer and story-teller Michael Harding.

The second event was one of Gerry and the Plonkers’ series of free monthly concerts in Donabate Parish Hall, sponsored by the Parish Hall Committee, where they were joined by local musician, Edel Dempsey, on whistles and flute. Their next free concert will be on Wednesday 4th December from 12 noon to 2pm. All adults are welcome, and light refreshments will be provided.

Gerry and the Plonkers also played at the recent Memory Café in Donabate Portrane Community Centre and will lead the singsong at our Christmas party in Keeling’s on Friday 6th December.

But Donabate Portrane Men’s Shed has more to offer than music. In addition to our music sessions, every week we have an exercise class, croquet at Newbridge House and a gathering for tea and chat. From time to time, we also have outings to places of interest. Our most recent was an interesting visit to the museum at Mountjoy Jail; more about that next month. We also have two plots at Turvey Allotments, which even at this time of year need attention.

So, if you or someone you know would like to join us, please contact our PRO, Jim, on 086-3694316.