I was planning on dispensing entirely with a report on GGWF's venture to South Chingford last night in favour of a blow-by-blow account of my recent holiday, complete with snaps of me in various filtered poses by the sea. Unfortunately, judging by the groans and eye rolling that began to appear after I spent the first half an hour of last night's run telling everyone about my break, I have reluctantly concluded that no one wishes to hear anymore about it.

Therefore, on with the run report. Well it was lovely to be back after a three-week hiatus and what a fine destination and crew to join with to get me back into the GoodGym swing. All veterans of previous campaigns and fine, friendly folks they were too. It was particularly nice to see Eminé, returning after a long break and now newly married. Congratulations again Eminé:)

Seven of us set out on the run to the Memorial Park where we met with the wonderful Friends of South Chingford who kitted us out with bags, hoops, gloves and litter pickers. From here we fanned out into the park collecting the usual detritus that gathers in these urban spaces, as well as some more outlandish specimens. But I am sure you don't want me to go into the brace of used nappies and other minging materials that were lurking in the bushes.

Half way through the litter pick, I received a call from the Redoutable Ramon, who wished to join us but had headed to the wrong destination. Not to be deterred by this oversight he hit the pavement and managed to join in for the run back to base. And at almost 4k each way it was no walk in the park.

As for the litter pick itself, we made a big impact in short time, collecting enough empty beer cans to build a, errm large structure of some kind out of beer cans. The run back took us past Walthy Dog track for the obligatory photo then back to base for stretching, talk of my holiday, drinks, talk of my holiday, food, talk of my holiday and goodnights.

Next week we will be restoring graves but not in a sinister Burke and Hare way so do join.

☮️