This was my 1st time volunteering at Parkrun, I thought I'd be stuck but everyone was super supportive and helpful and I got a hang of the way the app and scanning works quickly thanks to the help of other volunteers. My favourite aspect was the sense of community.

We won an Heart of Gold!

When Maritime Radio's presenter Gary Silvester heard about what we do, he invited us onto his show to collect a Heart of Gold award recognising our work in the local community.

Sarah and Rachel collected the award during a one hour show with Gary at the Martime Radio studio in Shewsbury House on Shooters Hill. They chatted all things GoodGym backed by a soundtrack of songs put together by the Bexley GoodGymers to represent what GG is about:

• Rain on me (Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga) - representing how we brave all weathers and GG motivates us to get out and get moving, and always with good cheer.
• I'll be there for you (The Rembrandts) - how we support local organisations and each other, make new friends, and have a great team spirit.
• Born to run (Bruce Springstein) - how we use our exercise to do good.
• Wonderful world, beautiful people (Jimmy Cliff) - how GG's kind-hearted volunteers help make a difference in our community.
• Can't stop the feeling (Justin Timberlake) - that sense of fulfilment when we've done a task.
• Don't stop me now (Queen) - GoodGym Bexley is growing and looking for new tasks and new people to join us. *The best things in life are free (Janet Jackson) - GoodGym is free to join, with completely optional donations as we are a charity.

We do what we do because we like making a difference, so this award is a lovely treat. Hugely well done Team GG Bexley!

What a lovely afternoon helping at Parkview Care Home's Summer Party!

It was down to work as soon as we arrived!

Johnny was put on bunting duty, while Cat, Sarah and Martin were in charge of balloons to complete the decorations.

Then it was Pimms o'clock, mixing jugs of the cocktail and serving it - along with beer and soft drinks - to the residents and guests.

After that we helped with the raffle, before lending a hand to those who needed it at the buffet table.

The grand finale was handing round portions of that amazing cake, making sure no-one was forgotten.

After a spot of tidying up we said our goodbyes and headed home, happy that we'd helped the party go with a swing.

As the advertised task was cancelled late in the day we relocated to the Welling Library 📚.

It was a good job we did as it was totally overgrown again!

We all set to work with our secateurs and brooms 🧹. As you can see from the before and after pics we made it look perfect, ready for the public to enjoy in the morning.

We couldn't resist going for a drink and a snack after for Sarah's birthday 🎉 at Devis Corner ☕️🍺.

After wrapping up at our GG task at Blackfen Community Library, I ventured out solo, walking between nearby shops, cafes and businesses asking them to display a leaflet about the Community Hospice’s Great Wall of China fundraising trek taking place next year.

Almost everyone cheerfully accepted a leaflet, and some even let stick it up in their window or on their community noticeboard myself!

Hopeful the Hospice will see some new sign‐ups!

A perfect morning at my first ever GoodGym session!

After a nice half an hour stroll up Bostall Hill, I took in the breathtaking gardens as I arrived a little early. Walking up to reception, nervous and full of excitement, Sarah and Johnny welcomed me into the GG community. I met the lovely head gardener, Jason - aka Van Gogh - credit to him for the pun in this title!

We made a start as the rest of the team showed up, with the mission to clear the pathway at the entrance and battle the thorns. A team of eight was the perfect number. Teamwork makes the dream work! Within an hour, we transformed the entrance.

Zita was a powerhouse, attacking the ivy in minutes, snipping and raking. She never stopped. Ceci was a pro with the shears and came up with great references for everyone: Sweet Caroline and Simon Says. She couldn't resist sharing a few dance moves at the end of the mission.

It was so lovely to start the weekend off with a rewarding workout, feeling that we are contributing to our local community. I discovered that Caroline went to the same secondary school as myself and met her husband at a pub in Bexley.

After a few photos, a few of us shared lunch, which was the perfect ending to the day! The hunter chicken was a great recommendation, although the lasagne looked just as tasty! Thanks to Robert for sharing his chocolate cake with us.

I'm looking forward to seeing everyone again next month.