The former chief medical officer will promote the charity across Scotland.

The Scottish Men's Sheds Association (SMSA) has appointed Sir Harry Burns as its new patron.

Sir Harry, who was Scotland’s chief medical officer from 2005 to 2014, will promote the charity’s work and serve as its public face for the next three years.

Knighted in 2011 for his service to society, Sir Harry is also professor of global public health at the University of Strathclyde and a member of the Council of Economic Advisors in Scotland.

In 2014, Nicola Sturgeon presented him with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the inaugural Scottish Public Service Awards in recognition of his lasting contribution to public service.

In his new role, Sir Harry will work with SMSA to support and inspire men to set up and run sheds in their local communities, improving health and wellbeing. The charity describes its men’s sheds as shared spaces where men from all walks of life can work on practical projects or simply find camaraderie, conversation and friendship.

Jason Schroeder, executive officer of the SMSA, said: “We are honoured to welcome Sir Harry Burns as our patron. The Men’s Sheds movement began in 2009 in Scotland and there are now 188 known open and developing sheds (engaging over 7,000 men) across Scotland and they are continuing to grow at a rapid rate.

“Sir Harry’s support will be key to create awareness and gravitas of the vital work that we do to improve men’s health and wellbeing. We are very much looking forward to working closely with him.”

Sir Harry said: “I have always admired the concept of Men’s Sheds and the growing grassroot movement in Scotland and am delighted to become the patron of the SMSA. I look forward to supporting the great work that they do in my new role.”