On Tuesday 14th April, Chippenham Shed hosted a community social event celebrating how the group has become a vital space for its members and the wider community.
Held at the North Wiltshire Bowls Club in Westcroft, the event brought together members, trustees, local representatives and community partners to mark a special occasion – the Shed’s third anniversary in its current home. It was a lively afternoon, with a warm welcome for supporters, funders, councillors and partners to see the work first-hand.
The Shed has grown remarkably since moving to its workshop three years ago, expanding from 28 to 68 members. That growth says something important: people genuinely want to be part of this community.
While many associate Sheds with woodworking, this group offers much more. It’s a place for connection, conversation and creativity, whether that’s making something in the workshop, helping on the allotment, or simply enjoying a cup of tea and good company.
Members of Chippenham Shed in the workshop.
Members take on commissions from individuals and community projects, creating items such as planters and benches for local groups, typically covering only the cost of materials. Smaller handcrafted wooden items including bowls, spoons and decorative pieces are sold at local craft events to help support running costs.
Red 1, a car made by Chippenham Shed members for a local primary school.
A planter made by Chippenham Shed members for a community area.
For those who prefer a more social experience, there are weekly Tuesday afternoon tea and cake gatherings at the Bowls Club, regular events throughout the year, and an active allotment where members grow fruit and vegetables together. No previous experience is needed to get involved, and membership remains low-cost.
Open to both men and women, with members aged between 19 and nearly 90, it is a genuinely inclusive space. Many are retired, living with health conditions or simply looking for connection and the Shed offers somewhere to belong, along with social membership of the Bowls Club as part of the joining fee.
Frances, Chair of the Shed, said: “We are incredibly proud of what Chippenham Shed has become. It’s about far more than making things, it’s about friendship, support and being part of something meaningful.”
CBLC awarded a £900 grant last summer to fund new air filtration units for the workshop. Woodworking and crafting can generate fine dust over time, and this investment is making the space safer and more comfortable for everyone who uses it. It builds on previous support, including a workshop planer and a polytunnel for the allotment.
A personal thank you to Frances, the trustees and all the members for such a warm welcome. The pride in what has been built here was clear throughout, it’s a real privilege to see this kind of community in action and to play a small part in supporting it.
Find out more about Chippenham Shed on their website:
