Rosa and Hilary led the team on the run from the Aquatics Center to the Up Garden.

Kevin and I took the shorter route from home and met Tim at the entrance on his first visit to the garden and Umar on his first GoodGym session.

Catherine from the UPGarden greeted us and gave us our instructions for tonight
* move chairs and tables in colour-coordinated groups
* sand chairs and tables removing loose old paint

We split up and had the groups sorted in now time and so onto the sanding.

Suz came to say hello and let us know about the fun packed weekend the garden had recently had holding a piano recital for the pupils of two local piano teachers and the 60th celebrations of the borough of Newham.

All items sanded and it was time to say our goodbyes.

Next week is a visit to see Sybil at Emmanuel Church where we'll be creating a new flower bed.

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On a balmy Tuesday evening, a squad of eight set off from the Aquatics Centre for a classic GoodGym combo: run, task, teamwork, impact.

This week’s destination? The ever-welcoming Hackney Marsh Adventure Playground, where we were met by the indomitable Ange — beaming with good news. The playground dates back to the 1970s, when a degree of risk taking and challenge was all part of the design philosophy. Lots of the structures at the playground that support this philosophy are in need of replacement and Ange has recently secured some funding that will support long-overdue redevelopment work.

Those who’ve been on previous tasks here may remember shifting a hefty stack of wooden piles to free up one area for works. This time, the redevelopment zone had moved to the entrance where we'd moved them, so naturally, it was time to move them again! (strategic rotation?)

Armed with gloves, grit, and GoodGym spirit, we made short work of not only the infamous wooden piles but a few other bits of timber, too. Classic GoodGym efficiency — in and out, job done.

Special shout-out to our trio of first-time GoodGymers: Bianca, Lise and Mark — great to have you along and hope this is the first of many! And a warm Newham welcome to Richard, joining us for the first time in the borough — strong debut energy all round.

This task is always a favourite. Ange’s commitment to the playground and her legendary organisation mean it’s a joy to return each time — even if the wood just keeps moving in circles. Thanks to everyone who came along and made light work of a weighty task. Until the next pile shift... ply on! 🪵

Next week, we’re making a long-awaited return to the brilliant UP Garden — an award-winning community hub that’s been transformed from a disused laundry yard into a urban oasis for local residents. It’s always a pleasure to visit, and our host Suze will no doubt have a good list of tasks! 💪