A small but mighty crew headed down to the riverside this evening to tackle a familiar invasive foe: Himalayan balsam.

After a run or cycle to the task location, we split up along the riverbank and got stuck into pulling up the plants before they have a chance to spread their seeds. The recent weather had left the ground soft, making it satisfying work as roots and all came free with a gentle tug.

Working our way along the path, we soon created impressive piles of balsam and opened up space for native plants to thrive.

With plenty of plants removed and the area looking noticeably clearer, we gathered for a group photo before heading to the memorial gardens for fitness, feeling pleased with another practical contribution to keeping our local green spaces in great shape.

Tonight we did some exercises around the circle then froze into different positions. It was then back to base for a stretch out.

We also congratulated all the impressive runners who completed races and relays over the weekend, cheered Mitch for doing his 600th deed and Neil his 100th, and welcomed Yashodh and Nada to their first group run.

Great effort from everyone involved!

With Pete and Catherine enjoying a walk along the river to the task we were joined by James and soon put to work taking a gazeebo down, moving various tables and chairs and general tidy up. Much appreciated by Abigail and her small team and if anyone wants to help set up next sat with Mitch at Homestead Park many hands make light work....

We are becoming regulars here and its always a nice task at the bowls club. always assured of a friendly welcome and thanks galore. With 5 of us hot footing from the clothes swap we were joined by Ben and Ellie. With Pete on barrow duties the other 6 took up the shovels and soon made short work down the side of the access rd. No cake but the home made tea loaf was delicious....

A ridiculously large turnout from GoodGym at the clothes swap this month with Pete making his first visit and Antonia making a welcome return. Good to see Issy back again as well.

The clothes swap volunteers were also there in force which meant we could enjoy a more relaxed morning than last month's chaos 😁

Lots of fun was had and Pete, Claire and me all walked away with outfits for upcoming festivities.

Tonight was our first balsam bashing of the season and there was plenty for everyone! 🌱

Before setting off all the way to Fulford Ings we celebrated May's goodgymer of the month Hannah Hannah has become a Monday night regular as well as giving up time on many a Friday. To top it off she's upped her running and is training for a marathon! What a legend!🤩

Matt also completed his 250th parkrun so we cheered him too!

Finally we welcomed Scarletto her first group run. Not sure how she heard about goodgym!

After all the kudos we headed off with Ed leading the run and Vicky with a cycling group.

At the ings we were net by Nicola who had been bashing all day but assured us there was plenty left! We avoided midges, nettles and thistles best we could and after 45 mins had accumulated piles to be proud of.

We then headed home with a pit stop on the bridge of pain for some mexican wave fun fitness and then finished off with birthday squats for Peteand Scarlet 🥳

Finally, we wished Ali a bon voyage as he heads back to France. Thanks for joining us and hope to see you again one day!🇫🇷