Community champion Bob McPhail is passionate about Kennoway.
The football coach has been inspiring children with his skills for decades.
And now he’s bringing the older generation together after realising his dream of a community shed in the Levenmouth town.
The result is improvements to Kennoway itself thanks to things such as new Christmas lights and a war memorial garden.
But the shed has also helped boost the wellbeing of residents, particularly during Covid.
Together, the community shed members are combating loneliness, sharing skills and raising money for even more initiatives in the town.
And they’re determined to help those in need with the preparation of hot meals.
“Everywhere should have a wee place like this,” said Bob.
“People love it and it’s just taken off.”
From woodwork to crochet and even beekeeping
Bob is well-known in Kennoway through his football coaching, which included spells with youngsters at Dundee FC, Celtic and Raith Rovers.
He was involved with Kennoway Sports Association and managed to raise £500,000 for new changing rooms.
This prompted the idea for the community shed at Cotlands Park.
While many similar initiatives are for men, the Kennoway one also welcomes women.
Members can do woodwork or metalwork in the workshop.
Elsewhere, there’s a sewing machine, thrift shop, books, jigsaws, crochet, and a host of other activities.
And there are beehives so they can make their own honey to sell, a polytunnel to grow flowers for the town’s hanging baskets and a fairy garden for children.
“For some people, the only voice they hear all day comes from the television,” said Bob, 58.
“And others who have been used to getting up early and working all their days retire and suddenly find they have no purpose.
“We wanted to change that and give them a place to come and feel useful – or they can just sit around chatting if they prefer.
“One man gets two buses to come here and sits and does model boats.”
Community shed benefits all ages
During lockdown, Bob and other members made and delivered meals to vulnerable people in the community.
“Every time we do something it’s well-received in the community,” Bob said.
“It’s very rewarding. Anybody could be looking for help and we’re happy to provide it.”
He predicts need will be greater once winter hits.
“There will be people deciding whether to buy a winter coat or switch their heating on,” said Bob.
“We can make sure they’re ok and identify any issues.”
And the younger generation will also be included.
Eventually, the garden will be open for local school pupils who grow their own pumpkins and other veg.
“That’ll be the icing on the cake,” added Bob.
At the moment the shed is open four days a week and there are around 60 regular members.
They hope to be able to welcome new people in the new year.
If you would like to nominate a Community Champion, please send details to community@thecourier.co.uk