Gage our success in aiding a damson in distress

The rain stopped just in time for today's run to Woodcroft Community Orchard so we were able to fully delight in the 5k journey, taking especial pleasure in the gentle slopes at the end of the route!

The orchard is a new location for us and it was great to arrive and find that our host Andy had come up with a plethora of tasks to keep us busy.

For those who wanted more slopes there was a chance to barrow mulch up the hill to the next allotment and Paddy, Tim and Darren were quick to volunteer. Darren even took the effort to stage a carefully orchestrated and not at all unanticipated comedy wheelbarrow picture for me.

For those who preferred less slopes there was some more localised mulching around some raised beds and the orchard entrance way. Caroline, Kat, Alison and Julie took on the task with gusto.

Dave and David happily bashed brambles up in the top corner.

And for everyone else it was a matter of visiting each of the 50 trees to supply a refreshing drink of seaweed-fortified water and to top up any mulch.

Great work today everyone, both at the task and over the 10k of running either side!