This was our first group session of the new year, and what better way to kick things off than getting outdoors and moving on a cold, dark evening?

With our red GoodGym t-shirts hidden beneath many warm layers and coats, we gathered at the cannon ready for a three-part task for Discover Welling.

First, a Christmas tree rescue mission! The town’s tree had been taken down and sawn in half, ready for council collection, but not before we dived into the branches to save the decorations. With chilly fingers and plenty of enthusiasm and chat, we rummaged through to make sure nothing was left behind.

Baubles safely collected, we set off on a brisk power-walk along the high street. At each lamp post, we peeled away the sponsor thank-you stickers for the Christmas lights, which had shone bright thanks to Discover Welling’s crowd-funding appeal. We also took down the posters showcasing children’s designs from the bespoke Christmas light competition. It was a race against the cold before our fingers completely froze - a good incentive to keep moving!

Our final task was a quick one: taking down and neatly rolling up the Merry Christmas banner from the base of the cannon.

Proving that many hands really do make light work it was mission accomplished in under an hour - the perfect excuse to hop across the road for well-earned hot chocolate drinks at Devi’s Corner!

A brilliant start to 2026, and seven good deeds added to our January Challenge tally as we aim for 35 this month. Can you help us notch up even more? There’s plenty to choose from, so sign up and come along for some fun with us! 🎉💪

With 2026 just about up and running, so were GoodGymers from all over the country, picking up litter in their local area. Great that so many folk got involved in this task - what an excellent way to start the new year. Keep up the excellent work all!