When I rang Mr R's bell this afternoon, an unexpected visitor opened the door and said "Ah, you must be The Shopper"...it turned out Mr R's cousin was visiting for a few days, and being a little more sprightly (Mr R's words) had made it to the front door first!

With suitable introductions made, it was then a quick and productive trip around the aisles to get him everything he needed for the week.

Gail and Steph Ducat were at the Strand early as usual and were waiting for the van to come as was stuck in Central London traffic. Some of the regulars were happy to see the Goodgymers as knew lovely vegetable biryani was on its way. Once the van arrived, it was action time as the team served a freshly made hot biryani and the hot drinks were welcome in this cold. Special treat with the hot beverages : biscuits which disappeared in minutes. One of the regular volunteers thought that I, Steph Ducat was undercover. Yes Goodgym undercover helping Gurseva....in fact he said I was an undercover police officer 👮‍♀️

Another well planned mission with Ms G this afternoon - she had everything to hand ready for my arrival - I even found the right front door this time. Her list was clear, and everything apart from Vinegar was on the shelves of her local Tesco - fortunately there was a local mini market a few doors down that had the missing Sarsons (large bottle...). Ms G is always so very grateful when I return with her treasure.

No pictures to accompany Miss N's list this week, but accurate directions within each of the three shops she wanted me to go to, which required me to pay close attention - fortunately I found the dates at Sinbad, the correct sourdough in Tesco, and the requested cheeses and brown eggs in Aldi. Miss N was impressed/relieved that I'd paid attention to her briefing...

Mr R was clearly suffering from the Monday blues today when I arrived at his door, although he did say he'd managed to get our for a short walk, which had made him feel a bit better - he clearly isn't looking forward to the approach of earlier darker evenings.

On the much more positive side Tesco had everything he needed this week, for which both he and I were delighted...sometimes it really is the small things...

A long awaited return visit to see the always friendly Ms G, who unfortunately has had to move flats (temporarily she hopes) as her previous one suffered from a flood, and they're still working to fix it. Once we'd resolved exactly where I could find her front door, she produced shopping bags, money and an easy to follow list - all to be found (bar the basmati rice) at her local Tesco just round the corner. As per my last visit Ms G was so extremely grateful for the help.