BROMSGROVE Age UK group, ‘Men in Sheds’, is holding a fundraising and open day which includes a virtual marathon and a Ping-Pong-a-thon.

The event, set to be held at their base – ‘The Shed’, will see Abi Swarbrick, whose father-in-law, Phil uses the service, running the virtual London Marathon in and around Stoke Prior.

Whilst Abi is running, the Shedders will be taking part in a continuous game of Ping Pong from the time Abi starts to when she crosses the finish line.

Phil said his involvement with the Bromsgrove Shed came about because of ‘circumstance and coincidence’.

The group was set up by Age UK to tackle loneliness in retired men.

After suffering a major condition, followed by eighteen months of surgery, Phil’s emotional wellbeing took a hit and became increasingly isolated.

“The welcome that I received from the Shedders was such that I decided to join - this decision was one of the better ones I have ever made,” said Phil.

“That one decision has made a huge impact to my life, and I found, and was made part of, a group that was supportive, full of laughter and fun, where I discovered friendship, camaraderie, support, help and encouragement.

“Given the difference The Shed has made to my quality of life, Abi decided to undertake the Virtual London Marathon to raise funds for Bromsgrove Men In Sheds.

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“I am so incredibly proud of her for taking on this challenge and I hope that sharing my story will encourage people to support her efforts, but I also hope that it might encourage others to take that step to ‘reconnect’ and perhaps, like me, visit the Shed”.

The fundraising and open day is set to take place on Sunday, October 3 from 9am to 3pm at Metal Ores Industrial Estate, Stoke Prior.

To donate visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AbigailSwarbrick