Throughout the last week, 7 good- gymers from different areas collected and binned wayward items that had been strewn across our boroughs streets and parks.

Myself and Anna teemed up after another task to do this.

I even thought I had found my lift home, but alas, on closer inspection it had broken down and was waiting for the AA!

It was all aboard for this week's group task helping out the Friends of Raynes Park Station. Our job was to move a big delivery of soil from the street up the stairs to the platform, using a series of buckets and trugs. It was heavy work but we were soon on track to finish on time, even managing to cut back some brambles as well. Before departing we presented Jade with a card and colourful wig to celebrate her 500 task milestone. Well done, Jade - tressed to impress!

We spent the morning dead-heading daffodils and hyacinths to encourage future growth, alongside clearing out a fair amount of stubborn sticky weed. Of course, no session is complete without a litter pick to ensure the park stayed pristine. With great company and perfect weather, the morning flew by, leaving the area looking much tidier and ready for the next stage of spring.

Despite a bit of a blustery, windy evening, the team headed back to Longthornton to put the finishing touches on our hoarding masterpiece. When we arrived, the lovely Sarah had already made a head start by outlining some of the images giving us the perfect template to get stuck in.

It was all hands on deck to paint the white of the eyes first, ensuring they had enough time to dry so we could get that vital second coat on. Between the laughs and the gusty weather, we managed to create some beautifully furry edges before finally adding the whiskers here and there. This truly was one of the most rewarding tasks we’ve been asked to tackle. Combining community spirit with a bit of creative flair was a total joy, and the end result is quite something to behold. Longthornton is looking a lot more purr-fect tonight and the team have gained some new skills.

Tonight, the team headed to the Tranquil Garden at Mostyn Gardens for a group session that was anything but sleepy! After a little reshuffling of the job list, we split into teams to tackle a trio of tasks: painting planters, digging to plant new trees, and getting stuck into some serious weeding.

Of course, in true GoodGym style, we got it all done and there was even time to catch up with some regulars that we haven't seen for a while. We also had the pleasure of meeting Brenda, who earned the very important t.shirt, by completing her very first session.

Well done everyone! Next week we are at Raynes Park station and need an idea of numbers in advance (to arrange the soil bags) so sign up if you can make it: https://www.goodgym.org/happenings/help-friends-of-raynes-park-station-with-moving-compost-ee5e966b-365c-4536-8ff4-eaffd3e5d078

Had a great time supporting the Merton Friends of the Earth Repair Cafe, assisting with setup and various tasks to ensure the event ran smoothly. It was a brilliant success, with several items including a clock, trousers, and a jacket; successfully repaired and given a new lease on life.