A THREE Towns community group is looking to grow its membership - after celebrating one year in operation.

The area's She Shed group was formed back in 2023, thanks largely to local woman Lisa Stewart.

Since those early days, membership levels have trebled as the She Shed goes from strength to strength.

The women of the group currently meet three times a week, on a Sunday, Monday and Tuesday evening - from 6.30-9pm in their premises at 11 Glasgow Street in Ardrossan.

They will be moving into new premises which they will share with the Men’s Shed later in the year, once alterations to those premises are complete.

While the two group's have their similarities they will continue to operate separately, although the men and women do get together once a month for 'soup and a quiz' or 'soup and bingo'.

Lisa commented: “No two meetings are the same with a multitude of different activities being enjoyed by members.

"To date these have included candle and soap making, sewing, knitting and a variety of artistic endeavours.

"Of course, many are happy simply to have a chat with others in a friendly, welcoming environment.

"We all learn practical skills from one another, along with coping skills for those who need extra support.

"The Shed is open to all women over 16. Just turn up on any of our evenings and you will be sure of a warm welcome.”

North Ayrshire Council's mental health champion, and councillor for Saltcoats and Stevenston, Jean McClung recent visited the group.

She had high praise for the Three Towns She Shed after being most impressed with the progress made since the group’s inauguration.

Cllr McClung commented: “I enjoyed my evening recently down at the She Shed where I had the privilege of catching up with some lovely ladies I have met in the past as well as making some new friends.

"As the Council’s mental health champion I cannot thank Lisa enough for all she is doing through the Shed to give her members  a sense of purpose, provide a comfortable environment for them to meet, exchange ideas, and to offset possible feelings of isolation.

"We all certainly had a 'good blether and laugh' when I visited!

"I was impressed not only with the friendly, convivial atmosphere but also with the range of activities on offer.

"Three talented ladies sat all evening, while also enjoying the conversation, reupholstering chairs!

"Another was sewing little 'Santa socks' for hanging on Christmas trees, while the youngest member enjoyed some artistic work. She also showed me some impressive prose she had been composing!

"I am assured, however, that no one should feel that joining in an activity is compulsory. Just 'getting out the house' can often do a power of good!”