A HAMPSHIRE charity is set to extend their current facilities thanks to a cash boost from the Daily Echo's parent company.

The Romsey Mens Shed, is a group for older men where they can meet, socialise and work on practical projects that benefit the community.

The self-help group aims to counter social isolation and promote wellbeing and healthy lifestyles.

The charity will now be able to build an extension that they will use for social events and storage thanks to £2,000 donation from The Gannett Foundation, which is run Gannett, owners of Echo publishers Newsquest.

Malcolm Kaill, 68, who is the current chair of trustee's at the shed said: "It was very exciting news when we found about getting the money from Gannett.

"Its the last bit of money that we needed to ensure we could afford to go ahead with the extension.

"If we hadn't the grant this would have had to have been delayed."

Richard Rose, 72, who attends the shed said: "It is such a great way to meet new people, socialise and learn new skills.

"We get more and more people coming along every week."

Bill Aldous, 72, an engineer from Romsey said: "We get so many people come here for social reasons and sometimes it just gets too npisey.

"We need a new social shed for a quieter area and it will also make it easier for storage."

Trevor Bond, 68 said: "The shed is a great place to connect with people my own age and learn new things.

"There is always lots going on."

Simon Westrop, chairman of the trustees for the Gannett Foundation, said: “Amid all the political and economic turmoil, real life goes on of course.

“And it is a privilege for the trustees to be able to do a little something to help where we can.”Applications to apply for next years grant can be made through applying to the Daily Echo. Residents can submit applications from July and a notice will be given in the paper and online.