As motivation to get out the house early before my long run, I headed down to Queen's Park ready to scan some barcodes. There was drama, there were tears, there was elation, there were little kids wandering off the course before their parents could coax them across the finish line. Great to see young runners enjoying the sport and feeling a sense of achievement. Followed up with a slow and steady run in the downs 🏃‍♀️

Can we join forces with the Tidy Up Team of Brighton & Hove Council, and local community volunteers to make a difference? Yes, we can.

Can we support the Hanover & Elm Grove Community Forum, Hanover Action, and the Phoenix Estate in their weeding efforts? Yes, we can.

Can we help create cleaner, greener, and more welcoming streets for everyone to enjoy? Yes, we can.

Can we come together as neighbours, volunteers, and friends to strengthen our community spirit? Yes, we can.

Can we show that teamwork and care can transform our shared spaces? Yes, we can.

Can we show up energised and leave feeling satisfied ? Yes, we can

Disregarding downpours earlier in the day, an enthusiastic group of Goodgymers jogged to Moulsecoomb Primary to help out in the garden. Bypassing the historical huts constructed for pedagogical purposes, we headed to the veg patch and a collection of young trees at the back of the playground. Moulsecoomb Primary is well-known for its lush and variegated playground, and we do enjoy visiting periodically to help with weeding and general gardening.

Serenaded by the unexpected but welcome cries of a nearby urban chicken, we hacked at overgrown brambles, dug up weeds, and meticulously removed bindweed that was choking the baby trees. We were having so much fun we almost forgot to stop, but sadly the darkening sky warned us that it was time to be on our way.

Thanks team for a great task, and to Rosie for leading the first part of the run! We're looking forward to returning to more of our old haunts as we get into autumn 🍂