We started this one from the artsdepot. Brilliantly, no one got lost and went to the Phoenix Cinema, or brought more than they could carry - at least, no one we knew about. 5 Goodgymmers gathered - regulars Beattie and Rachel arriving first. Was great to see Rupesh, who joined us for the first time in a while and will be getting stuck back into missions. Subham finished the set, running from Finchley Central to join us, arriving ready to go.

We warmed up a sunny patch outside the artsdepot, then we set off on a 2km run to the Porters Way entrance to Coppetts Wood. We were met by Julian, one of the Coppetts Wood Conservationists, along with Filip and Chloe for their second session this month - they'll be earning their free t-shirts in no time!

Julian introduced us to the history of Coppetts Wood and their volunteer group - who meet for 3hrs every Sunday at 9am at the entrance off Porters Way. More labour welcome, if you're free - details here.

Then we trekked through the wood to the North Circular for our clean up, and found our first challenge: a dumped motorbike. This had been removed by volunteers once before, but magically found its way back into the woods, so we removed it again and reported it. Then we scoured the bushes and undergrowth, picking most cans and bottles from inside the fence. We hauled out a discarded roadworks barrier and before long we'd hit our time limit, so we stored our stash by the sign and reported it.

Then, given our unusual end point, Rachel and Beattie found a bus to take them home, while Subham, Rupesh and I ran back through to the Colney Hatch Lane entrance, taking the scenic route. A glorious run through soaring woodland flowers and darting birds, after which, Rupesh headed home eastwards, while Subham and I completed the circuit back to North Finchley for a pint, with Filip and Chloe walking to meet us.

A few few people came online to do yoga.

Yoga talk

Yoga can contribute to muscle development while nurturing physical and mental wellness. In yoga studios and classes, practices like vinyasa yoga incorporate strength-focused poses that engage muscles and encourage growth. While yoga’s primary goal isn’t solely muscle-building, it does enhance overall body strength and tone.

Shepherds Hill Gardens, Sunset, Samosas and a Ghost Story Deferred

Last night GoodGym Barnet headed back to Shepherds Hill Gardens, where we try to help Pat and the local friends group every six weeks or so. Their regular volunteers have become a little less active over time, so our extra hands really do make a difference.

We met at the Phoenix Cinema, where the pre-run chat somehow turned to ghosts. Most of us were firm non-believers, with a few cautious “you never knows…” George promised an excellent ghost story, but sadly we never quite got to hear it one for the next social.

We then ran the 2–3km to Shepherds Hill Gardens. The tube strike made the roads busier than usual, but we were rewarded with lighter skies and a beautiful sunset.

Pat had three jobs ready for us: litter picking and sweeping the top area, cutting back ivy from the path, and adding compost around a newly planted fern area.

After a good burst of work, Pat treated us to hot tea, excellent chocolate biscuits and vegan samosas a heroic hosting effort.

George also spotted and heard a goldcrest, one of Britain’s smallest birds and a lovely London wildlife bonus.

We ran back to the Phoenix a few minutes late, but with the gardens tidier, the path clearer, the ferns happier and one ghost story still mysteriously waiting to be told.