A cosy start

26 of us gathered in a small hotel room this evening to welcome one another, including our new runners Anna and Xinyi.

Everyone was very tolerant of our small space (filming was taking place in front of the hotel in our usual stretching spot this evening, alas), and my endless 'shush-ing' as we ran through announcements and task details.

And bang on 7 we headed down Cambridge Heath Road to one of our favourite tasks but also to the one with possibly the most, traffic lights, and the longest traffic lights. Good for nattering; less good for fitness.

After what seemed like a less busy route than usual, we breezed into the Royal London to meet task owner Nancy, of Barts Volunteers, and the brilliant Bernadette and Richard.

3 crews

3 teams were soon formed: those who'd previously completed dementia training headed up with Bernadette to the 14th floor to chat and read to the patients.

A second team, led by Richard, took surveys and Evening Standards to staff receptions and patients & families on multiple floors, while a third team, our biggest team, headed out to the hospital's John Harrison garden to prune and water roses and conduct a large litter-pick.

Sacks were filled, recycling bins blitzed, bushes beautified, patients PALS-ed...Oh, and residents rolled. Yes, three strong runners kindly helped a local motorist who asked for a hand giving his car a push. A task within a task. Ace. What an evening's work. What a hive of activity.

And then shortly after 8, just as we were headed to Reception to say our goodbyes, Nancy raced off, returning with the most delicious cake for the runners, to continue the Volunteers Week celebrations.

What an ending.

And then we were racing back to base playing our (my) favourite greyhound-and-hare game with all runners giving it their all. An unexpected fitness teaser - well done to you all.

Thanks tonight to Charlotte, Polly and Joel for fab pics and Rachel and Liz for backmarking.

What's coming up...

And the Tower Hamlets week isn't over! On Thursday it's the GoodGym social, close by in the heart of Shoreditch, perfect if you fancy a quick end-of-week drink with some friendly faces. Details can be found here..

And on Saturday, we have a fab Community Mission happening: we're heading to Cranbrook Community Food Garden to join in The Big Lunch! Help out in the garden and then join the team for some food. Janet & the team are thrilled we're coming. So don't miss out - sign up here.

See you soon, and have a really wonderful week.