The Oldest Litter Picker – by About 45 Years!

Today’s task for the Woking GoodGymers was a four-hour litter-picking session at the local music festival, ShyneFest, helping to raise funds for Woking & Sam Beare Hospice.

Karen took on the challenge in style, dusting off her bike and cycling to and from the event. On a swelteringly hot day, it was a rewarding task, with plenty of water breaks to stay hydrated and a fantastic family-friendly atmosphere throughout.

Karen was probably the oldest litter picker there—by about 45 years—but she certainly didn’t let that stop her! A great day of volunteering, exercise, and community spirit, all in support of a very worthwhile cause. 😀

As Adam arrived at Woking junior parkrun I could already see everything was well organised and setup. Add I get closer the the bandstand, I could see Karen and Olalekan already there, with their highvis's on. James soon arrived armed with some coffees, which I was very thankful for.

It wasn't long before I registered and was given a different marshall position at finish funnel, ensuring adults wouldn't block up the funnel holding things up by going through the finish funnel.

The briefing started where run director Richard, gave the introductions for Woking Junior Parkrun number 350.

There where many children lined up for the start and when the whistle sounded, you could feel the ground shake as they stormed off the line. A good start was made as they all joined the path quickly.

The first runners passed me, all focused and I'm guessing looking for a quick time. Then the other runners came by a bit more gently and with big smiles on their faces.

And it turned out an incredible a total of 251 children finished and the first finisher to complete the run, in a fantastic time of 7:20
Well done to the GoodGymers that helped it with another smooth Junior Parkrun 😁.

On a beautiful spring morning, we saw the biggest turnout of children yet, made even more special with a number of children joining for the first time.

Olalekan, Adam and Karen were there from GoodGym, with Karen also bringing her friend Steve, who was visiting from Shropshire.

Another fantastic volunteering session—and a perfect way for children, parents and volunteers alike to start their Sunday.

An early start on a cold morning, with the clocks having just gone forward for spring. Despite that, the children arrived full of enthusiasm, and it was lovely to see such a strong turnout—especially as it was also the start of the Easter holidays.

Wayne and Karen were both volunteering, positioned at opposite ends of the course. Karen took on the start, allowing her to leave promptly afterwards to help with the Horsell Bowls annual spring clean—no doubt involving plenty of back-breaking weeding!

All the children were cheered on enthusiastically around the course, creating a fantastic atmosphere from start to finish.

Another great session at the GoodGym