We swapped our running shoes for networking shoes today and attended the Carers Information Event at Raynes Park Library to share more about Missions in Merton. With a guest appearance from an ex-Merton GoodGymmer (who had moved away) it was a great opportunity to catch up with other volunteers, organisations and meet a few new faces.

It was hugely encouraging to hear some positive feedback from those who have already referred an individual - proof that our practical support is making a real difference. We're hoping to get more GoodGym members 'mission verified' so we can continue lending a helping hand where it's needed most.

Tonight, we returned to Mostyn Gardens in Merton Park to create a new border for the external bed (an area we previously helped clear of weeds).

Some of us were tasked with digging a trench. Thankfully (or maybe not, given the resulting mud! 😉), the weather had softened the ground (improved further by the downpour while we were mid-task!) making it fairly soft and easy for our spades to make an impression.

With wheelbarrows at the ready, a couple of the team log-ged some serious miles collecting the wood for the border, piling it up ready to be staked into the ground.

For those seeking a slightly lighter task, there was also some pruning of the plum trees to be done - perfect for branching out from the rain! Handy that we came prepared with our secateurs.

Once the trenches were dug, it was all hands needed to fill them with logs and replace the (by now) mud.

It was good to welcome a couple of GoodGymers from out of the area and also Mik to his first task - not the easiest or the driest, but hopefully enjoyable nonetheless.

We got even more done than anticipated and are certainly helping this garden grow into something very special! 

It was the annual Morden Fun Day and this was our chance to help the local Rotary Club to raise funds for youth projects in Merton. From the Hoopla to Pick a Lucky Card and Splat the Rat, three Goodgymers (and another who popped by) spent an enjoyable, sunny afternoon with plenty of enthusiastic customers of all ages. And who knew that splatting a rat would be quite so tricky?

Six GoodGymers descended on Critical Support after hours for our latest group mission. Some cycled down the River Wandle and others walked and it was a lovely evening for it too.

While The Felix Project's multi-bank delivery wasn't quite as large as anticipated, we quickly adapted our plans! We got stuck into a fantastic variety of tasks: meticulously moving a large batch of fruit bowls and toothpaste, expertly flattening a mountain of cardboard boxes, and giving the shelves and floor a thorough, sparkling clean. It was the perfect opportunity to flex our muscles and keep busy, leaving the hub immaculate.

Rain stopped play (or work) initially, as a thundery downpour soaked the garden, although full marks to Jade and Jo who kept calm and (tried to) carry on. Thankfully the deluge was quite brief and we could soon get stuck in clearing logs and stones in preparation for a new woodland display under the laurel tree, then digging it over, plus some general tidying and weeding. The garden is looking blooming lovely at the moment and the new insect hotel is the bee's knees.