Our task this evening was to move a number of large wooden items from one end of Mr A's garden (where they were obstructing access to a door and a manhole) to the other. After completing this task we used the remaining time we had to clear a bit more space in the overgrown garden so that Mr A can access and enjoy the garden more easily.

The sun was out, and so were the brambles... Ms G told us she had lived there for over 10 years but after having a stroke a few years ago she had struggled to keep the garden under control. The whole place was full of life, with birds, insects and plants, which was lovely to see but also made it quite difficult for Ms G to walk around or enjoy the space safely.
Robin and I started by cutting back the bushes and pulling up weeds. We shared one pair of gardening gloves between us but Ms G offered us some tools, water and company as we cleared the path. Some of her neighbours even popped up from windows and over garden fences to say hello as we worked- wondering if we could help with their gardens too. When we had finished and tidied up Ms G seemed very pleased with the changes we had made. We even managed to fit it all in the garden waste bin - a task that was not at all easy due to the many many spikes, brambles and uncompromising branches that we had cleared away.. Happy Ms G. Happy volunteers. Job well done.

Last night was quintessential GoodGym gold. With cooler temperatures and awe-inspiring hues above, 20 plus runners did a ridiculously efficient job assisting an educational wildlife garden.

We welcomed Newham first timers Lauren, Sally (my Archway neighbour), Amy and Dave (old pal of mine who's been threatening to come for almost four years).

Random Weekly Question courtesy of big JW, "what's your favourite sports book or film?" Chariots of Fire a classic late answer, Dodge Ball, Rocky, Blind Side, The Mighty Ducks, Cool Runnings and plenty other Hollywood Hits. Bend It Like Beckham for the noughties nostalgia, The Zidane film and Icarus- an incredible true story, must see (Netflix).

2.5k to West Ham Park, and you all wasted no time getting stuck into the task. Laying woodchip down on paths. creating borders with the various lengths of log and a bit of weeding around larger plants & saplings. Beautifully effective hustle, got a considerable amount done, some superb energy flowing the ranks this week. Our man in charge, Tom, blew a whistle to signal end of play at 8pm. By that time the mulch pile had dissolved to a mere shadow of its former self.

I could sense burning collective desire to conclude the task with some core work, got to give the people what they want. 5 exercises done - 5 minutes later a marginally stronger corset of muscles. Nicely nailed one and all.

I believe a hit team of crisp munchers and pint swiggers headed over to the pub for high level GoodGym strategy talk. I'm sure they've arranged this week's parkrun location?

Next week it's over to Manorfield Primary School, and it's been a while. Sign up here

Make your weekends count, looks to be a bit cooler so no reason not lace up and run free.

Till next week

B

I met Stephen outside Ms N’s house after a lovely run in the hot midday sun. Although the day had started off with gloomy clouds and rain, Stephen, Ms N and I were all really pleased to see the sun come out in full force just before our mission began. Ms N welcomed us in and presented us with some tools, including two garden strimmers designed to cut the grass, and introduced us to her garden that had become slightly wild as her mobility had reduced over the last few years. Stephen soon got to grips with the strimmer and proceeded to give the lawn a much needed haircut, while I went around pulling up weeds, raking up the clippings and moving snails out of the danger zone. After about an hour the job was done and Ms N told us how grateful she was to have her garden back again.