The flowers are in bloom and the baby animals are out.

We had a lovely time at Baffins Pond today. Seeing the swans on their nest, proud duck parents with 7 ducklings, a moorhen with her baby, a cat keeping an eye on things and plenty of dogs looking for some fuss. My favourite were the 2 ducks sitting out by the dipping pond clearly having a moment of peace away from the kids!!

All this animal action made up for a very uplifting sight of very little litter strewn about the place. But I did continue yesterday's treasure finds with yet another hair band!

Once again, Southsea seafront became stage for this months Run & Rave, one of the main aims of which is to promote a safe nighttime running environment for all. Friday also saw the biggest GoodGym turnout to date!

Six of us hit the prom, with Abby leading the way on sustainability, arriving by bike to get those legs warmed up early! Katie debuted her (legendary) neon smiley rave t-shirt - an elite charity shop find! A huge shout out to our leader Jen for perfectly embracing the rave spirit, sporting a pair of fantastic furry (and purrry) cat ears! Sinéad stole the spotlight, entertaining the crowds with her very own spectacular poi ball light show! Sammy's good will face-painting also attracted crowds, converting the faces of over 10 people with her signature rave design! Sammy also presented GG newcomers with their custom Run & Rave bangles - beautiful gifts which are handmade by honorary GG member Betsy. Thank you so much from us all Betsy, and thanks to everyone for an incredible night.

We had quite the turn-out for our excursion to Emsworth this evening, which was super-handy as there was a lot of work to be done!

Rebecca, the Head Teacher, and the Caretaker had started some prep work, so we got stuck straight in to the task. Katie and Sam got stuck straight in with scraping and sanding, whilst Judy and Andy were on priming duty for the woodwork. Double Dave caused Double Trouble with an exploded tin of green paint. Sinéad arrived after her run around Thorney Island to lend a hand. Birthday Gal Val found her calling as a wallpaper instructor, helping Rebecca to get the lining paper on some of the walls.

Val also provided music and snacks, so we got to channel our inner dancing queens with an Abba soundtrack.

A contractor had quoted the school close to £5000 to do the work needed, so GoodGym's efforts have certainly helped to keep school funds supporting the children, which is wonderful. Well done, you are all awesome!