A berry lovely task!

7 GoodGymers made their way to meet Donald at one of my favourite East Finchley local spots, Long Lane Pasture nature reserve, which is managed entirely by volunteers, and open to the public on weekends. This used to actually be a pasture with horses in the past, and was saved from being built on around 20 years ago. Now it is a haven for wildlife (18 butterfly varieties spotted so far this year, some resident foxes, and lots of birdlife), with ponds and wetland, meadow grasses, and brambles with absolutely delicious blackberries. Definitely bringing a tupperware next time to bring some of those home for a crumble! We split into groups, with Beattie and Rachel doing some excellent work on the 'wigloo' willow den; Alefiyah and Yesika getting stuck in with a spade for some intense grass clearing to make way for more meadow seeds, and Lauren, Megan and Moya trimming back shrubbery to keep the paths passable (and eating a few blackberries on the way). This was the first good gym activity for Lauren, Yesika and Megan, and first Barnet based for Alefiyah. Was great to have you with us! We also celebrated the fact that this was Good Gyms 7th anniversary of supporting the nature reserve, and had some delicious vegan courgette cake homemade by Donald. That certainly helped give some energy for the run back!