MEMBERS of Peebles & District Men’s Shed are going back to school after being gifted a new home.

A temporary classroom building, previously used by Duns Primary School, has been awarded to the fledgling group by Scottish Borders Council.

The building consists of two adjoined classrooms - one of which will be used for woodworking and metalworking activities by members, and the other to be used as a meeting area where members can socialise and participate in modelling and artistic activities.

Until the portable cabin is transported from Berwickshire, the Men's Shed will continue to meet at the Drill Hall.

Tony Butcher from Peebles & District Men's Sheds told us: “We are very pleased to announce that we’ve been awarded a temporary classroom building from the old Duns Primary School.

“We are making arrangements for the transport of this building and we are about to enter into negotiations with SB Cares with a view to placing the building within the community garden operated by Peebles CAN.

“In the meantime, we wish to pass our thanks to Scottish Borders Council for their assistance in providing us with this building.”

The Men's Shed opened its doors for the first time in Peebles last year, with an aim to reduce isolation and loneliness for its members.

Although the majority of Men's Sheds members across the UK are retired men, the organisation is open to anyone over 18 - including women.

Regular meetings, often weekly or monthly, allow members to carry out activities and hobbies together while also enjoying a cup of tea and a chat.

Mr Butcher added: “We continue to meet at the Community Centre each Monday from 11.45 to 14.45 and will continue to do so until our building is established and open for use."