Mayo ‘shedders’ building up steam for kettles world record

They’re brewing up for a world record down at Castlebar Mens Shed.

Kettles of all shapes and sizes are pouring into the ancient, cut-stone building at the rear of the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) which serves as a base for the county town ‘shedders’.

“We’re building up steam in our attempt to create a new entry in the Guinness Book of Records," explains Shed chairman, the jovial Mick Kane.

Members of the eighteen Sheds across Co. Mayo are assisting the offbeat attempt by the Irish Mens Shed Association (IMSA) to create a world best for kettle assemblage.

The IMSA objective is to have at least 1,000 kettles on display at their annual conference next week in Mucklagh, Co. Offaly.

At the moment, kettles for the display are being collected from Shed members nationwide.

Castlebar Mens Shed and Kiltimagh Mens Shed, are the collection points for kettles in Mayo.

One important stipulation – all kettles must be in working order.

Once the world record attempt is over, all kettles will be returned to their owners.

Said Eva Beirne, National Men’s Shed project co-ordinator: “We all know that the kettle is the most important tool in our 400 plus sheds nationwide.

“To highlight the social and mental health benefits of our Sheds, we’re aiming to create a brand new entry in the Guinness Book of Records.

“We aim to have more than 1,000 kettles in good working order in the one place at the one time."

Mick Kane and his hardworking committee have been busy for the past week organising the logistics of the local collection effort.

“We’re delighted to be part of his unique endeavour," Mick commented.

“Shed members across Mayo have responded enthusiastically to our appeal for kettles."

To ensure the display in Co. Offaly, which is being sponsored by Flogas, meets Guinness World Records criteria, representatives from the publication will be present to verify the total number of kettles collected.

With more than 1,000 kettles on the boil, many pots of tea and coffee are certain to be quaffed by the many shedders who will attend next week’s IMSA conference.

“It’s going to be an Electric Kettle Picnic," quipped Castlebar Shed member Tony Deffely with typically deft humour.

PHOTO: Pictured are John Cawley, Harry Flanagan, John Maxwell, Mick Keane and Antoin Boyd with a growing assortment of kettles at Castlebar Mens Shed as the countdown continues to the world record challenge on November 19.