Altogether 9 Goodgymmers turned up. Celine and Cat started walking from Decathlon. The remainder 7 started running up the streets, up , up hills through Norfolk Park and up, up and away. We stopped to look at some sculptures especially the 'Doe and Toad'. Then more uphills but somehow did not come into contact with the 2 walkers. They must know a shorter route because they were already at Arbourthorne School when we arrived. Still a mystery how they walk faster than the 7 runners. Anyway we met Angela and Rachel and they explained the tasks involved. We were then given tools, equipments and gloves. Then went to the areas identified and started pruning the willows whilst others weaved them. Fortunately Adrian , the gardener by profession knew how to use a battery operated strimmer and he managed all the paths and areas needed attention. Also fortunately we have 2 other strong men, Rob and Joseph managed to uplift a heavy, compost bin and emptied the contents onto a wheelbarrow. Hard work done by 9 Goodgymmers BB with the extra help from Angela and Rachel. The pruning and weaving of the willows kept us going and we forgot about time because it was such a joy. We finished at 8 pm. I cheekily asks for biscuits for all if us because Angela did mentioned it earlier in. I said we will work hard first then will enjoy the biscuits after. So true to Chocolate Hobnobs Biscuits. Such a Joy!

The Shindig 2026 Sunday walk had something for everyone, combining history and nature along 5km of trails around YHA National Forest. With nods to the area's industrial past in the beautiful countryside setting, 25 GoodGymers joined for a very mindful morning.

We walked through Conkers, along the Ashby Canal, past Moira Furnace and around Donisthorpe Woodland Park, before heading along part of the Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail (a disused railway) back to base.

The highlight was stumbling across a Living History Camp as part of an event at Moira Furnace Museum. As well as a history lesson, we got a snapshot of the more simple parts of wartime life. Not something you see every day!

Good movement, good time in nature, and good connection, what better way to round up another beautiful GoodGym Shindig weekend 💛

It was fantastic to welcome new runner Sherif to the gg family, a welcome and really helpful addition.

The weather was fantastic last night, so it was a bit of shame we were heading inside, but as soon as we arrived Jess and the team at Common Thread brought the sunshine inside!

This week we were packing up clothes parcel for people in need, from families to funerals. It was great to know who the parcels we were putting together were going to, really bringing the charities reach and impact to life.

Some people got to general sorting of donations, whilst others had a printed sheet of the peoples requirements.

Refreshments were on had and as ever, were really appreciated.

It was great to see everyone and help out again with our friends at Common Thread.

Until next time, happy running! :)

First of all welcome Jenny Hide to Goodgym. This is her first session. Altogether 8 runners ran in light drizzle from The Showroom up to Lynwood Gardens. We were met by David who then gave us instructions and introduced himself to us. Nice and friendly David gave us various tools, gloves and led us to the cycling path which was overgrown . We were then given further instructions of what needed doing. We worked in pairs, cutting, pruning. pulling weeds out , sweeping and showelling the greenery, leaves and branches to designated areas. Lots of stinging nettles needed attention and pulling or pruning back. Fortunately 8 of us and strong, experienced David managed to clear the cycling path to make it safe for pedestrians and cyclists.

The 3 of us net at The Showroom. We walked, jog and ran up to Rock Street, off Pittsmoor Road. It was a very. very hot day. So glad we drank some water before at The Showroom. We then met up with Karen and another volunteer. Bags , hoops and Litter Pickers were given. We were then told where to do the tasks. We did a good 45 minutes but fortunately we had some shade. There were loads of fly tipping of cardboard and clothes too. Cans, bottles and loads of other litter were collected by 5 people all together. Certainly made the streets looking cleaner and tidier. Good job well done by all. Thank you team. Bob persuaded us to go to The Harlequin Pub fir a cool drink. Thank you Bob for treating us. Well deserved drink.