GoodGym tasks are not just about getting active, supporting communities and lending a hand. Yes, they are all those things, but sometimes they can also be about stumbling across some extraordinary finds...

Just this week, for example, we were sorting out tools and donations at a local food waste charity in Wandsworth when we came across a flame thrower. The task owner claimed she used it to light her cigarettes, but we didn't question that one too closely. We've also cleared out storage cupboards where we found a Victorian dentistry kit and an abandoned wedding dress, worked by the river and spotted a real life message in a bottle, and during the course of litter picks we have uncovered several unmentionable items!

Help and safe-ty

Last night's session at St Andrew's Youth Club was one of those times we discovered something very cool. Our job for the evening was to help empty a full staff room and to shift all the items to various spaces around the building - which were mostly, unfortunately, up several flights of stairs. This amazing centre offers kids the opportunities to learn sports, music, arts and more.

The variety of different activities taking place in every room was inspiring. It also came with it an impressive level of music, voices and sounds from every single corner, which was perhaps what has prompted manager Adrian to transform the staff room into a sensory room for those that need some quiet.

Stairs in their Eyes

First it needed to be cleared. Out came dog beds and boxing gloves, computers and desks, clothes and sports gear. Then came the really heavy stuff. While Michelle and I took on a more 'strategic' role and loaded up the lift, Chalomi and Jacob took on the challenge of shifting some extremely substantial filing cabinets up the stairs. What a workout!

Meanwhile Ivo uncovered an incredible find which had been hiding underneath everything else. A very old, very heavy and absolutely massive antique metal safe, complete with beautiful hand shaped knob. What could be inside? While Adrian located the huge key we all stood back and waited expectantly to see what treasures lay within. What did we spy inside? The secret remains within the walls of the oldest youth club in the world - and you'll have to come along to the next task there to find out for yourself!

Shout out to all the different areas represented last night - we had GGers from Hounslow, Wandsworth, Southwark and Tower Hamlets and lovely to have the central team so brilliantly represented. Next week we're off to do some flyering for the brilliant local organisation FoodCycle to help spread the word about free meals for those who need it, and how to volunteer as well. Hope to see you there!