WORK to extend a Romsey group's facilities is underway.

The Romsey Mens Shed, have started work on its new extension.

The work for the extension comes after the group received a cash boost of £2,000 from The Gannett Foundation, which is run Gannett, owners of Echo publishers Newsquest.

As part of the group, older men can meet, socialise and work on practical projects that benefit the community.

The extension which is set to be complete in July will be used for quiet social events including activities and games and it will also provide the group with extra storage.

Malcolm Kaill, 68 said: "The fantastic grant from the Gannett Foundation grant was the icing on the cake, and the last bit of funding we needed to make a start."

When asked about why the Mens shed is a valuable community group Trevor Bond, 68, who attends the shed said: "The shed is a great place to connect with people my own age and learn new things.

"There is always lots going on."

Richard Rose, 72 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."

The group hold a repair shed where people can bring in small electricals, tools for sharpening, toys and small furniture for fixing in return for a small donation for the groups running costs.

The next repair shed session will take place on May 4 from 10am until 12noon.