Seven GoodGymmers gathered on Raymill Island for a double‑mission evening of watering and repainting.

We were welcomed by Nivi and Shoshan from the Friends of Raymill Island, and wasted no time getting stuck in. First up: helping Shoshan haul a few stray logs out of the stream — an early warm‑up before the main tasks began.

With the logs sorted, the group split into two teams. Sol and Jess took on the watering challenge, ferrying bucket after bucket from the stream to thirsty flower beds and planters. It turned into a full‑body workout!

Meanwhile, Meggie, Katie and Nicola breathed new life into the Ladybird Hopscotch, carefully repainting each cheerful bug. Mike tackled the rainbow, restoring every colour so it shone brightly once again.

By the end, the whole area looked refreshed and revived. Passers‑by stopped to thank us and commented on how much better the space looked — always lovely to hear.

A job well done, and we’ll be back next week to help Shoshan tether the logs so they stay put and don’t end up in the stream again!

Mick, Meggie and Sheila spent a peaceful afternoon at Ray Mill Island, watering the newly-planted areas and weeding out the rampant winter heliotrope. Mick also fashioned a plant retainer out of dogwood stems to hold back the Japanese anenome. It was lovely to get lots of positive comments from appreciative passers-by

Five GoodGymers met at the community allotment on a sunny evening to help with some jobs, joining taskowner Sue. Georgeta took on the task of doing all the watering, both in the greenhouse and all the beds outside. The rest of the team constructed a structure from canes to support the climbing beans. Then came the exciting bit of planting the beans, with Sol demonstrating her special technique for tying in the beans. All whilst being watched by the distinctive Robin with ruffled feathers, who took the opportunity to feast on some tasty treats from the disturbed earth. A great job by Georgeta, Rachel, Sol, Meggie and Sheila to get their weekends off to a great start

Twelve enthusiastic GoodGymers set about sanding old pallets at Wessex School to re-purpose as a stage. Many hands made light work so the task was completed in record time! Fortunately there was plenty of weeding to fill the spare time. Amy won the prize for the largest weed and Ed tackled the stinging nettles. We were careful to leave the pretty cornflowers, strawberry plants and a few wild flowers for the children and bees to enjoy! A fun chatty evening!