While Sty Guitar Gently Sleeps

One drizzly evening in February a gallant group of 21 GoodGymers stepped out of the warmth of their homes to help Emmaus Bristol sort, fix, iron and clean their way to greatness.

Emmaus are a wonderful charity who help homeless people to build better lives for themselves by giving them opportunities to achieve and develop. Our task for the evening was many-fold, as the lovely Xanne explained when we arrived in their warehouse. They have recently opened new shops so a lot of the donated toys, books, records and crockery they have needed cleaning, sorting and boxing ready to be sold. And they also need transfers to be ironed onto t-shirts for the Big Sleep Out this Friday at the Pip 'n' Jay Church in order to highlight the reality of homelessness in the city.

We split into several groups. Disco Jack was fast to put on his ska hat and lead the crockery cleansing team. Chloe spent some time toying around with whether Upsy Daisy had a kite mark. Our London guest Steve was sorting vinyl faster than a flooring expert who needs to how every sample of his wares to the treasurer of the sliding bassett hound association buying a choice selection for their clubhouse. Ted nailed his comeback from injury with some master craftmanship fixing up furniture. Georgina and Rachael created the latest in Bristol Fashion by ironing on transfers to t-shirts ready to promote the Big Sleep Out. And a special mention to Mel who was by far the most glamorous taking on a myriad of tasks wearing her tiara (I know there were loads more of you who did a great job but I'd be here all night if I mentioned all of you!)

After 40 minutes we had smashed through the tasks and Xanne was very happy with what we had achieved. We had a quick photo shoot, waved goodbye to the pig playing guitar above the door and then hit the road. On the way home I set the group the task of perfecting their hill running with some reps by Castle Park. They took up the challenge with much gusto and did themselves proud. Especially Charlie who earned herself the technical sticker of excellence (catchy I know!) for her technique.

After stretching in Queen Square it was time for the night to end. Thanks to everyone who came out tonight. Especially debutantes Stella and Elisha who got well and truly stuck in. You lot are the absolutely amazing.

See y'all again soon,

Gary