We came, we trimmed bushes AND went to the pub!!!

Heeley People's Park has missed its regular volunteer groups that usually help out in the park so it was great to be back to lend a hand. Goodgym have worked all over the park and shifted a lot of wood chip in all weathers over the years so coming back to see the park in full blossom was lovely.

Covid meant that only a small number of staff were left to manage the park without all the extra help they normally have so it's great that is building up again. We were very grateful to have a task to do and to be able to see each other in such numbers! Socially distanced of course!

We worked in two groups to cut back undergrowth that needed a trim. Some was growing over paths, some was strangling fruit trees and some just needed a bit of a haircut after lockdown.

Plant ID apps were used to identify trees which led to debate about what trees smell of and whether we all had much experience of the scent. Coronavirus testing came about with someone wondering if it was only them that could not smell the jasmine but the real debate was about what linden trees smell of. It seems various rumours and half facts were circulating realising we all need to go home and do some DIY research.

We said goodbye to Bev who is leaving for another volunteer coordinator role in another organisation. Thank you Bev!

Still split into two groups we went to the Brothers Arms where we realised we had forgotten how to socialise. On our table at least, the conversation was pretty dire at times with us realising how nothing much had been happening with months of lockdown. Even apparent interesting 'gossip' fell on its face but we were glad to be together and we'll improve our social skills for next time. Apparently someone other people don't know, called 'Ben' has slightly longer hair and more beard. It did get that bad.

No fish and chip shops are open in Sheffield on a Monday but we'll start building a directory of where is good to eat for post mission snacks. Italian on Chesterfield Road was open and was very good.

Lovely to catch up and look forward to more regular tasks and hopefully runs soon... :)