Altogether 9 Goodgymmers turned up. Celine and Cat started walking from Decathlon. The remainder 7 started running up the streets, up , up hills through Norfolk Park and up, up and away. We stopped to look at some sculptures especially the 'Doe and Toad'. Then more uphills but somehow did not come into contact with the 2 walkers. They must know a shorter route because they were already at Arbourthorne School when we arrived. Still a mystery how they walk faster than the 7 runners. Anyway we met Angela and Rachel and they explained the tasks involved. We were then given tools, equipments and gloves. Then went to the areas identified and started pruning the willows whilst others weaved them. Fortunately Adrian , the gardener by profession knew how to use a battery operated strimmer and he managed all the paths and areas needed attention. Also fortunately we have 2 other strong men, Rob and Joseph managed to uplift a heavy, compost bin and emptied the contents onto a wheelbarrow. Hard work done by 9 Goodgymmers BB with the extra help from Angela and Rachel. The pruning and weaving of the willows kept us going and we forgot about time because it was such a joy. We finished at 8 pm. I cheekily asks for biscuits for all if us because Angela did mentioned it earlier in. I said we will work hard first then will enjoy the biscuits after. So true to Chocolate Hobnobs Biscuits. Such a Joy!

Sunday morning run in the National Forest - trail running with run around lake with some wildlife. First 10km run for Amelia.

It was fantastic to welcome new runner Sherif to the gg family, a welcome and really helpful addition.

The weather was fantastic last night, so it was a bit of shame we were heading inside, but as soon as we arrived Jess and the team at Common Thread brought the sunshine inside!

This week we were packing up clothes parcel for people in need, from families to funerals. It was great to know who the parcels we were putting together were going to, really bringing the charities reach and impact to life.

Some people got to general sorting of donations, whilst others had a printed sheet of the peoples requirements.

Refreshments were on had and as ever, were really appreciated.

It was great to see everyone and help out again with our friends at Common Thread.

Until next time, happy running! :)

First of all welcome Jenny Hide to Goodgym. This is her first session. Altogether 8 runners ran in light drizzle from The Showroom up to Lynwood Gardens. We were met by David who then gave us instructions and introduced himself to us. Nice and friendly David gave us various tools, gloves and led us to the cycling path which was overgrown . We were then given further instructions of what needed doing. We worked in pairs, cutting, pruning. pulling weeds out , sweeping and showelling the greenery, leaves and branches to designated areas. Lots of stinging nettles needed attention and pulling or pruning back. Fortunately 8 of us and strong, experienced David managed to clear the cycling path to make it safe for pedestrians and cyclists.

Five goodgymmers met up with the lovely Common Thread volunteers to sort through heaps of recent clothes donations. After Fran and Jess's welcome, we organised ourselves around the tables, going through bags of clothes and sorting them according to gender and type of clothes. We were also looking for specific clothes to make bundles for other charities who were looking for particular items for clients. It was Vivien's first Goodgym session at Common Thread and just like the rest of us, she got stuck in, unearthing some fab clothes finds, making piles of coats, dresses, jumpers etc. Well done!!! We filled up the lift and soon it was time to bid goodbye to Common Thread, some of us leaving with donated leeks from Fran''s allotment or a fancy and snazxy item of clothing! Another job well done, gang! See you guys soon!