A Romsey men's group has celebrated the opening of its new home in a market town.

Romsey Men's Shed welcomed supporters, council leaders and friends to its topping-out ceremony.

Chairman of the club, Graham Gowman joined leader of Hampshire County Council, Roy Perry, councillors Mark Cooper and Ian Richards as well as the town centre manager Mark Edgerley last week to mark the opening.

The club's new base will be on site at The Romsey School.

Through grants from Test Valley Borough Council, the national lottery and other councillors and businesses, the shed has raised more than £30,000 to build the new base, accessible toilets and an outside paved area.

Chairman of Romsey Men's Shed, Graham Gowman said: "In less than a year, we have moved from a dream to a physical shed.

"We look forward to welcoming new members working together and getting involved in more practical projects in the community."

Work is continuing to fit out the shed with benches and a range of tools and equipment before the grand opening on March 28.

Member of the group, Malcolm Kaill, added: "With generous help from our funders and supporters, we will soon have the place, tools and equipment to make a big difference in the community.

"Romsey Men's Shed is part of the national men's shed movement and will be a great place to meet, socialise and get involved in practical projects."

The group has been involved in 15 community projects around Romsey, including clearing foliage to help give elderly residents safer access to Bartlett's Almshouses in The Meads.

The first Men's Sheds opened in Australia in 1998 spreading around the world shortly after.

There are several hundred in the UK and around 40 in Hampshire.

Romsey's Men's Shed is also a registered charity, founded in 2014, and now includes around 30 members who meet every Thursday.