Copse and Loppers

Thanks to Chris Lewis for leading the run this week and this stonking run report.

On Saturday morning, 17 fresh faced and keen Bristol Good Gymmers all met at Roll for the Soul keen to get running and do some good. After introductions and an explanation of the weeks task from (northern) Chris, the group set off up to Brandon Hill Park, stopping off at the Bristol Fountains to do some leg swings and warm up exercises. Upon arrival at the Brandon Hill, the runners were introduced to the project by Joe from the Avon Wildlife Trust, and given a full and interesting history lesson on the importance of the hill in Bristol's past.

Once briefed, the group split into teams, grabbed gloves and tools and got stuck in. One team clearing a hilly overgrown area with a combination of loppers, rakes, pitchforks, and slicers. Another team got stuck in to some heavier tree trimming and lopping, clearing large amounts of solid logs into an impressive jenga pile at the side. Extra hands were also lent battling brambles (our favorite past time!) in the butterfly garden, which is really starting to take shape. The gang hacked, chopped and sliced with plenty of gusto, transforming rough overgrown areas to trim fresh patches in record time!

Having completed the tasks in a flash, the group started on the run back, only to immediately see an enthusiastic red topped runner heading over the hill in our direction, who could it be??? It's Pru!!! Within a minute of her arrival, the relaxed park jog instantly transformed into some high intensity running up and down steps that even Rocky would be proud of.

With our legs suitably flexed, the group then started on the run back to meeting point. There was still plenty of time left, so before finishing Pru guided us all through a whole series of body stretches from head to toe, including some impressive lunging and heel turns.

Very well done to everyone who came along, a really good run and top enthusiastic work at the task. A special thanks to Alicia for taking all the photos, and another to Gary for rescuing the sign in sheet, great job!

Thanks to Chris Lewis for leading the run this week and this stonking run report.