Linskill Centre Men’s Shedders inspired by Prostate Cancer UK campaign
24th July 2023
On Sunday 28th May, Sam McLoughlin, Trustee of Linskill and North Tyneside Community Development Trust, cycled the RideLondon100 to raise funds and awareness for Prostate Cancer UK – a campaign close to Sam’s heart.
More than 52,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year. On average that is 143 men every day. Every 45 minutes one man dies of prostate cancer.
The RideLondon100 starts at Embankment, moves up towards the Olympic Park, out to Essex through Epping Forest and back, and finishes on Tower Bridge a little over 100 miles later.
Sam shared his experience with us:
“As part of my effort to raise awareness of this issue I visited the Men’s Shedders at the Linskill Centre. There are over 500 Men’s Sheds across the UK providing a space for participants to come together, socialise, mend and upcycle useful items out of woodwork. Since 2021 there has been a growing number of participants both male and female at the Linskill with their own dedicated space equipped with tools and equipment for community use.”
“Prior to my bike ride I visited the group on a Thursday morning when they come together for a bacon sandwich and a brew. In this relaxed setting I shared my story of preparing for my bike ride and how prostate cancer has affected my family.”
“Some participants shared their own stories of how they themselves had been diagnosed with prostate cancer whilst others had never been tested or checked for the disease. I was equipped with pocket guides from Prostate Cancer UK detailing the symptoms, risks and support lines. Many participants took these away with them and said they would be contacting their GP to arrange a test. This relaxed environment allowed us to have a very important conversation and I hope raised some awareness of the issue. The staff and volunteers involved in the Men’s Shed deserve high praise as they are truly delivering something much needed in our community. Pop along and see it in action.”