It was at the end of last year when Dik Cook started asking people he knew with an interest in craft and community whether they would join him in a project to establish a ‘Men’s Shed’ in Crowborough. Four did – Mike Stone, Mark Symons, Louis Lombert and Nigel Ray. So, a committee of five was formed which became the “steering group”
It took nearly a year to set up, with the support of the UK Men’s Shed Association (UKMSA) the Guides and CTC local councillors, to find premises, obtain offers of support, donations of funds and equipment/tools, agree a constitution, obtain insurances, open a bank account and spread the word by gathering expressions of interest at events such as the Crowborough Hospital Fete and other occasions including a quiz night, and, finally on 1 st December an opening event. This took place at the Guides Hall in Jarvis Brook in Crowborough Hill where the group meet in the adjoining garage store.
Dik has owned his own businesses over a number of years and is a qualified electrical engineer with a strong interest in model making especially aircraft. He is also into singing sea shanties and making chocolates but not necessarily at the same time.
A successful business & project manager. Has a passion for all things auto, with a collection of Austin 7’s. Can make anything from anything
Mark has strong community ties, volunteering for Wealdlink. He runs Not Dead Yet (NDY) a discussion group at the local Wetherspoons pub every other Tuesday lunchtime
Louis is engaged in all things mechanical and is our health and safety man ensuring shedders leave the shed in the same physical condition they arrived in. He can also be found at the Spa Valley railway
A retired surveyor, will be looking after the shed premises and the expansion into the new premises. A life-long DIYer with an interest in aircraft and model making