The children's ward at St Mary's Hospital has received a special delivery of handmade toys from an Isle of Wight charity.

Members of Nettlestone and Seaview’s Men’s Shed (NaShers) gifted a selection of wooden toys, including a multistorey car park, vehicles, puzzles and animal shapes, as well as some pens and pencils – all fitted into a toy box for neat storage.

NaShers was formed in 2018 by a small group of interested residents.

There are similar groups, called Sheds, located in communities across the world, all aiming to reduce social isolation by giving people from all walks of life a place to learn new practical skills, create, achieve and socialise.

Rob, chair of NaShers, said: “During our first few years, members concentrated on crafting items to help with fundraising as well as helping within our local community, with, amongst other activities, repairs for the church and school.

“Earlier this year, we felt that we should use the skills of our members to benefit our wider community. It was suggested that we should make toys for the children’s ward at St Mary’s.

“We were delighted when our offer was accepted, and we hope the children enjoy playing with them.”

Dionne Davies, children’s ward play specialist, said: “It was lovely to welcome the members of NaShers onto the ward.

"We are grateful to them for donating such remarkable handmade toys, they clearly have some incredibly talented members.

“Play helps calm and normalise a child’s stay on the ward, and beautiful hand-crafted toys like these really help make a difference to their experience.”

Everyone is welcome at NaShers, located on Seagrove Recreation Ground in Seaview, open every weekday from 10am – 12.30pm.