One lonely runner set of from Charlton for this week's group run. At Woolwich the numbers grew, two more runners and 4 walkers continued on to Plumstead and soon we numbered 12. And we needed all the help we could get for our litter pick around the Plumstead-Thamesmead borders.

The area was in a disgusting state: cans, paper, and crisp packet abounded along with a few bottles containing fluids that we may have been better off not emptying (my nose won't be forgetting in a hurry). The team worked like troopers, wandering off in all directions and in Ashton's case deep into the woods to really give the area a comprehensive clean. And what a difference we made: after just an hour we'd filled over 25 bags with general waste and recycling ready for the council to pick up the next day.

This isn't the nicest task that we do, but it's one of the most important and we left the area so much cleaner than when we started. A job well done by all.

And thanks to Ivar for the amazing pun for the title

Next week, in something of a contrast, we're making paper chains for kids for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. Hope to see you all there.

This afternoon we joined The Bee Conservation Trust, Discover Welling and Southeastern Trains to plant a host of bee-friendly plants at Welling Station.

With Ivar taking charge of the drill to create holes deep enough for the larger plants, the rest of us worked with trowels and a dibber to settle the seedlings into their new home.

We can't wait to see everything in bloom next spring and summer, when the flowers will be a brilliant source of forage for bumblebees 🐝🌼!

Coming up...

Wednesday 4 November – Putting up the Welling Sparkle stickers

Promoting Welling's Christmas market.
https://www.goodgym.org/happenings/putting-up-the-welling-sparkle-stickers-063d0797-a0a8-4e07-be10-06c420f143d9

Saturday 7 November – Clearing brambles, cleaning railings and coffee treats at The Exchange

Helping out at Erith's wonderful community venue.
https://www.goodgym.org/happenings/clearing-brambles-cleaning-railings-and-coffee-treats-at-the-exchange

Sunday 8 November – Lending a hand at Crossness Pumping Station

Helping to maintain this wonderful hidden gem of a museum.
https://www.goodgym.org/happenings/lending-a-hand-at-crossness-pumping-station