SMSA bids fond farewell to long-serving trustee and welcomes two new board members
Farewell to Dick Monaghan
The SMSA announces the sad departure of long-standing Board member Richard Monaghan (from Moffat Men’s Shed), who has stepped down from his Trustee role due to health reasons.
Richard has been a valued member of the SMSA Board and a passionate advocate for the Men’s Sheds movement across Scotland. His dedication, insight and unwavering commitment have left a lasting legacy.
SMSA Chairman David Gardner paid tribute, saying: “On behalf of the Board and the wider SMSA community, I want to sincerely thank Richard for his service and dedication over the years. His contributions and belief in the Shed model have made a real difference. We wish him the very best for his health and continued wellbeing.”
As one chapter sadly closes, another opens with the appointment of two new Trustees to the SMSA Board — marking an exciting step forward in the charity’s regional representation and reach.
Gus McLafferty, Men's Shed Dalry joins the Board
Gus McLafferty (pictured below left), Chairman of Men’s Shed Dalry in the West Coast, brings a wealth of experience following a 44-year career with BT, most recently leading service assurance for fibre rollout across the North of the UK.
A lifelong cyclist and former Scotland National Team manager, Gus is deeply embedded in the cycling world and community life. Gus chairs the Ivy Cycling Club in Glasgow and served as Chairman of the West of Scotland Cycling Association for five years during the late 1990s.
Gus co-founded Men’s Shed Dalry in May 2022 and is proud to now spend his retirement connecting with ‘new mates’ through the Shed, often with cycling as the common thread.
Donald Reid, Fort William Men's Shed Dalry joins the Board
Donald Reid (pictured right), Chairman of the Fort William Men’s Shed, also joins the SMSA Board. For the first time in its history, the SMSA welcomes a Highlands-based Trustee. Donald will ensure this vital region has a voice at the table.
Donald brings with him a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Sheds in more rural and remote communities, helping the SMSA further strengthen its mission of supporting all Scottish Sheds. Now based in Corpach, Donald is a passionate advocate for community, connection and volunteering.
A lifelong Glaswegian until moving up north with his wife in 2023 to be closer to family—children (Carrie and Graeme) and two grandchildren. Donald brings decades of leadership and people-focused experience — from running global sales with Moorcroft Pottery to 18 years as secretary of Glasgow Accies Rugby Club. Donald has travelled extensively and retired in 2016.
A founding member of the Milngavie and Bearsden Men's Shed, he believes deeply in the power of Shed life to foster camaraderie, purpose and support—especially for men seeking meaningful social connection and a desire to help others in the community.
These new appointments mark a significant step toward strengthening our national network, ensuring diverse, regional representation across the Board to better serve our members’ needs.
We thank Richard for his invaluable service and warmly welcome Gus and Donald to the SMSA family.
