By Patrick Abrahams, UKMSA Ambassador
At the end of June, the community came together for a spectacular, sun-soaked Regional ShedFest, co-hosted by the Axminster Shed and Axminster Tools.
In an incredible show of community support, Axminster Tools generously handed over their showroom and cleared out their customer car park for the day. In place of cars, the space was transformed into a bustling village of gazebos, showcasing the brilliant craft, camaraderie, and hard work of the regional Shed movement. We would like to give a special thank you to the Axminster Tools team—including co-owner Tim Styles, Matt McAuley, and Kelly Wakely. They truly made this whole event possible!
A Fantastic Turnout
Shedders from eleven Sheds from across the region pitched up to share ideas and connect, including:
Axminster Community Shed, Crewkerne & District Men’s Shed, Street & Walton Men’s Shed, Yeovil Men’s Shed and Community Workshop, Poole Men’s Shed, Fareham Men’s Shed, Littleham Men’s Shed, Bridport Men’s Shed, Andover Men’s Shed, Wells Men’s Shed and the Frome Shed
Attendees were treated to a brilliant lineup of live demonstrations and exhibits from organisations including Axminster Tools, The UKMSA, Polyvine, Dorset Design Works, Exeter Woodcarvers and the Royal British Legion, with masterclasses from woodturner Les Thorne. Excellent food and drink from Grogan’s Café and the Lyme Regis Brewery kept everyone refreshed throughout the day.
We were delighted to welcome several local dignitaries who came to show their support, including Richard Foord MP and Axminster Town Mayor Jack Price. We were also pleased to host Paul Hayward (Axminster Town Council Clerk, a District and County Councillor, and Axminster Shed Trustee) and Sarah Jackson (Deputy Clerk and East Devon Councillor), with other East Devon and Devon County Councillors.
A Historic Milestone: Gold Standard Awarded
A highlight of the afternoon came when Patrick Abrahams, UKMSA Ambassador, took the stage to present the Axminster Shed with a historic milestone: the first-ever Gold Standard in the Armed Forces Accreditation Scheme.
This prestigious accolade recognises Sheds that go the extra mile to actively support veterans, serving personnel, and military families. Axminster Shed has truly gone above and beyond by appointing a dedicated Armed Forces Representative, formally signing the Armed Forces Covenant, and forging strong partnerships with military charities.
Patrick warmly congratulated Shed Leader Colin Hayward and the entire team, praising their deeply welcoming spirit and encouraging other Sheds across the UK to reach out and learn how they can get involved in the accreditation scheme.
