Chairman’s Report 2025
Welcome and Introduction
Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the 10th Annual General Meeting of Havant Men’s Shed. I would particularly like to extend a warm welcome to Peter Wade, who is representing Havant Council at today’s meeting.
Our meeting today will follow a structured agenda. We will begin with reports from myself and Martin, providing an overview of the year’s activities and developments. Following these reports, we will proceed to the ratification and election of officers for the coming term. The meeting will conclude with any other business (AOB), where members are encouraged to raise any topics or issues not already covered.
Membership Update
Over the past year, we have experienced a significant increase in membership, which is very encouraging for the ongoing growth and vibrancy of our group. Notably, there has been a rise in the number of female members joining us, which is a testament to our commitment to inclusivity and creating a welcoming environment for all.
However, it is with great sadness that I must report the loss of Colin earlier in the year. His passing was a tragic event for our community, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Achievements and Activities
Throughout the past year, Havant Men’s Shed has accomplished several important tasks and engaged in a variety of activities that have benefited both our members and the wider community. Some of the key achievements include:
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Servicing of Axminster Machines: Regular maintenance of our Axminster machines has been essential in ensuring that our equipment remains in good working order. This year, replacement parts were required for the planer/thickness machine as part of the scheduled servicing. Additionally, some components on the drum sander were replaced, though this was unrelated to the main service. As many of our machines are beginning to show signs of age, I urge everyone to continue treating them with care to prolong their lifespan.
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Improvements to Dust Extraction: Enhancements have been made to the dust extraction system within the shed, contributing to a cleaner and safer environment for all members.
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Engagement with Tesco’s: Our ongoing engagement with Tesco’s has opened up opportunities for community support and outreach, strengthening our ties with the local area.
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Participation in Rowlands Castle Fair: By taking part in the Rowlands Castle Fair, we have raised the profile of Havant Men’s Shed and forged stronger connections within the broader community.
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Resumption of School Projects: After a period of pause, our school projects have now resumed. This marks a positive step forward in our collaboration with local schools and engagement with young people.
Thanks
The achievements highlighted above would not have been possible without the dedication and efforts of many members. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all who contributed, with special mention to several individuals whose commitment has been particularly noteworthy:
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The Management Committee and Trustees: For generously giving up their time and energy to ensure the smooth running of the shed.
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Gary H: For taking on the challenging task of managing the tea boat, which is much appreciated by all.
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Gary G: For representing the social aspect of the shed on the Management Committee and for his continued efforts in providing bacon butties.
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Ian and Tony D: For their valuable work in improving the dust extraction system, making the shed a safer place to work.
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Mike and Phil: For their strong work ethic and dedication in producing shed products for the benefit of the community.
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Jerry: For his mechanical expertise and assistance around the shed, particularly with the planer/thicknesser, drill press, and dust extraction agitators.
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Tony T: For his tireless efforts in ensuring that essential tasks are completed and nothing is overlooked.
Looking to the Future
Next week, we will be holding our first fundraising and engagement session at ASDA, marking another step in our outreach efforts.
With regards to St John’s Ambulance, we have been informed that the council will not be taking any action on this matter this year, so for the moment, we will be standing back from this initiative.
On the community front, we are seeing an increase in the number of school projects coming our way. One such project is with St Thomas More, with whom we have previously collaborated. Another new opportunity is with Barncroft, a Havant school we have not worked with before. This expansion of our school projects reflects our ongoing commitment to serving and engaging with the local community.
22/10/2025
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Bank and Petty Cash
Between 01/11/2024 and 28/10/2025
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Income Categories | |
| Contingency Fund | 160.02 |
| Donation | 4,101.19 |
| Event | 1,038.60 |
| Major Donation | 1,522.30 |
| Paypal Account | 1,875.34 |
| Sales | 2,582.20 |
| Total Income Categories | 11,279.65 |
| Expense Categories | |
| Computer | 92.60 |
| Consumables | 1,969.10 |
| Event Costs | 71.63 |
| Running Costs | 4,324.47 |
| ScrewFix | 1,512.28 |
| Shed Infra | 1,188.24 |
| Tea Boat | 35.00 |
| Total Expense Categories | 9,193.32 |
| Grand Total | 2,086.33 |