MEMBERS of a community project are stepping up security after crooks tried to break into the premises.

Would-be burglars attempted to force their way into Maldon Men’s Shed, in London Road, between 1pm on July 20 and 9.50am on July 22.

Burglars tried to force open the door but were unsuccessful.

The Men’s Shed suffered its first burglary just a few weeks after it opened in 2014.

The latest incident is only the second time it has been targeted.

The workshop helps bring men together to prevent them becoming isolated.

Shed member and committee chairman Phil Kinsman said: “It seems someone tried to get through the back door, but didn’t manage to get in.

“We’ve had alarms fitted at the building and we’re taking steps to fit one on to the back door.

“I guess, as we’re in quite a secluded area, they thought it was more of an easy target.

“This is only the second time this has happened, but we’re quite secure.

“If you’re trying to tell people about this initiative, you’re also saying you have these tools around.

“It’s a double bind – we want to be well-known in the community, but we don’t want to open ourselves to being burgled.

“It is kind of a background worry for us.

“We’ll do everything we can without turning it into a fortress.”

The project, which also builds and selling goods to the community, says it is very involved in the town.

A recent project included building wheelbarrow flowerbeds for Maldon in Bloom.

It is supported by Maldon and District CVS and run by a team of volunteers to provide a welcoming space for men who may feel socially isolated.

The shed was opened using the old mortuary building in Maldon Cemetery.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to call the police on 101, quoting crime reference 42/116564/19.