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Wellbeing in the Weald shows off local support groups as plans develop for Cranbrook men's group

Plans are being put together for a men's wellbeing group in Cranbrook.

Various groups set up in Vestry Hall on Saturday to share some of the initiatives available to local people.

The fair was organised by Wellbeing in the Weald, a voluntary organisation led by Cranbrook GP Dr Dineli Charlesworth.

Volunteer Mark Lawrence said: "There's a definite need for something for men in the area.

"The feedback I got from those who visited on Saturday was they want to be busy tinkering with something.

"I paralysed my arm playing American Football for Maidstone Pumas 13 years ago.

Mark Lawrence putting together ideas for the Cranbrook Men's Shed. Picture: Matthew Walker (7821727)
Mark Lawrence putting together ideas for the Cranbrook Men's Shed. Picture: Matthew Walker (7821727)

"Now my two daughters are getting older they're a bit more independent. I find myself sitting at home.

"I suffer with chronic pain, which can be affected by my mood, so it would be great to have something to do.

"We've already had a few projects given to us, Cranbrook in Bloom and Cranbrook Operatic Society have both come up with some ideas."

Toni Greenaway and Ashley Westfall are hoping to start a knitting/crochet group in Cranbrook. Picture: Matthew Walker (7821735)
Toni Greenaway and Ashley Westfall are hoping to start a knitting/crochet group in Cranbrook. Picture: Matthew Walker (7821735)

The father-of-two is in the the early stages of setting up a group dedicated to support local men.

As plan's develop, organisers are considering adopting the men's shed scheme.

Members of men's shed schemes usually spend their time taking part in projects, from woodwork schemes to helping out others in need.

Ali Ferris talks to practice nurse Sally Retallick about her Wellness Walks. Picture: Matthew Walker (7821728)
Ali Ferris talks to practice nurse Sally Retallick about her Wellness Walks. Picture: Matthew Walker (7821728)

The father-of-two said: "We're still planning everything out, until we get together and have a decision on what we're going to do, but running a men's shed seems likely.

"There's one in Staplehurst already and another opening in Hawkhurst, they're popping up in a lot of places"

Saturday's event was a chance to show off some of the groups available to anyone looking for new activities.

Weald Beekeepers set up shop alongside Toni Greenaway and Ashley Westfall, who are hoping to start up their own knitting and crochet group.

Other schemes on display included wellbeing walks and an eight-week 'happiness course'.

The wellbeing walk scheme comes as Kent county councillor Matthew Balfour suggested doctors should their patients with walking.

The Malling Rural East councillor said: "The Japanese do it and have special walks that they can prescribe.

"Why can't we do that? Why shouldn't we be doing that?"

To find out more about the groups available, click here.

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