Opening ceremonies usually involve a ribbon and scissors – but it was a chain and bolt cutters as East Hampshire MP Damian Hinds welcomed visitors to the new Alton Men’s Shed workshop in Edgar Hall.

Plenty of councillors and residents braved the rain to explore the new facility at the former St John Ambulance headquarters in Anstey Lane on August 5. It will enable Alton Men’s Shed to increase its membership and complete more community projects.

Sponsorship has been obtained from local businesses including Howdens, A-Plan, Coomers, Farm and Garden Supplies and Brewers.

For more information about Alton Men’s Shed visit www.altonmensshed.org and [email protected]