A lovely evening on Worthing seafront saw seven GoodGymers, blue bags and pickers in hand, removing litter from a stretch that ran from the Beach Office to Anchor Gardens. Always a great “catch up and chat” occasion, the full bags tell their own story about the real difference simple tasks like this make.

Denials with thanks

Interaction with the locals is always a pleasure on GoodGym tasks. Today we were given appreciative thanks in two areas along the prom. We also had a profuse denial of littering responsibility directed at us as we cleared around the bench they occupied. The hope that, regardless of his responsibility or not for the litter we picked, is that our visible presence doing this task will be remembered and the bins placed along the seafront are used for their intended purpose.

When the wind blows

To be fair to Worthing, there wasn’t that much rubbish that had been dropped. Most of what we collected probably arrived on the persistent winds we have been experiencing. Activity on the beach has also been restricted due to the trundling back and forth of heavy machinery as they work to repair our long-neglected groynes.

Just like Arnie

We will be back! As we head towards summer, the beach will be busier. Our litter picking example becomes increasingly important, as does the removal of that pesky wind-blown stuff.

It was a real treat to return to our regular task at English Martyrs First School, where Head Teacher Helen and premises manager Richard gave us their usual warm welcome. It’s always such a lovely atmosphere here, and even more so when shared with this wonderful team who never fail to raise a smile.

Tonight offered a choice of tasks, with something for everyone. Indoors, the mission was to freshen up a recently renovated transition room, while outdoors the focus was on continuing the varnishing of the sheds we’d previously worked on (doors first, now the full works!).

Inside, Sue, El, Belinda and I got to work tackling those easy-to-miss spots – covering over blue tack marks and scuffs with a smart coat of grey paint. It’s always satisfying seeing those little imperfections disappear and the room come together.

Meanwhile outside, Paul and Barbara took on the important job of varnishing (but not vanishing!) the sheds, making great progress under the watchful eye of John, who had kindly volunteered as photographer for the evening. I (Julia) was especially grateful for that, as it meant I could fully get stuck into the task without worrying about capturing the action.

All in all, it was a really sociable and productive hour, and a joy to be back doing what we do best together.