On the first group task of Spring we were blessed with a dry evening and a gardening task. Having cleared the area of litter, the team got stuck in to weeding, pruning and digging out the flower beds round Martin Way Methodist Church. Getting rid of some of the more persistent roots needed real effort and team support, but that is what we are so good at. So by the end of the evening, all the beds were cleared, the anti-weed netting was down and secured, and we could all be satisfied with a job well done.

Little Ark came to our rescue, and we were able to come to theirs as they needed our help to make bags for carrying liquids. So it was that the GoodGymers found themselves cleaning waterproof banners, and using templates to cut lengths of waterproof fabric from an erstwhile banner, all ready for stitching. Knowing our limitations, that step was left for the professionals.

Tonight’s group session at Merton’s Community Fridge proved that no two missions are ever quite the same. We were originally tasked with moving and replacing shelving, which involved shifting a large number of items from the storage area - but the task list quickly grew as we gained more sign ups!

In true GoodGym style, we took it all in our stride. While some of us handled a decanting of pet food job, others tackled the opportunity to deep-clean the elusive spaces behind the fridges. Whilst of course the shelves were built, moved and dismantled. Fortunately, Ben had a toolbox on hand to provide that extra GG magic, ensuring the new shelves were securely fixed to the wall.

It was a fantastic productive night - what an amazing team effort. A big welcome to Atif and Ben for joining your first ever Merton group session. We really hope to have you join us again soon.

Tonight, we arrived at the South Mitcham Community Association for a deep-cleaning marathon that really tested our range. We didn't just stick to one corner; we were everywhere, scrubbing tables and chairs, removing the mysterious sticky residue that community centres seem to generate and scraping off specks if paint. Once the furniture was looking suspiciously clean, we pivoted to the bookcases and another room upstairs for some thorough book organising and more - cleaning!

It was great to help out at this community space and with such a great turnout we could take our time. Which meant we had a few minutes to spare and a chance to sit down and take a moment to thank Caroline with a card and gift. After a year of leading us as Area Activator, she’s stepping down. Thanks for all your support.