Wednesday’s session kicked off at the Old Spike in Peckham, where Daryl gave us the introduction to our run. Gallage and Karthik joined us for their first Goodgym session! They chose the perfect one to come to - as we had planned for our monthly social for later that evening. After the warm-up stretches to loosen up those muscles, we headed on our 2.5K run to Thorlands.

Upon arrival at Thorlands, we were greeted by Simon, who provided us with clear instructions for the task ahead. The team then got to work on some essential mulching.

After completing our tasks at Thorlands, we made our way back to Peckham. To round off a fantastic session, we headed to Frank’s in Peckham for a well-deserved drink. It was a great opportunity to chat, and appreciate the great group we have at Southwark.

Thanks to everyone who came along and contributed. Looking forward to our next session next Wednesday!

We met at Old Spike before our group run to Old Alleynian Rugby Club. Our warm up was short as we were all suitably warm from it being a scorching day! We ran over to Dulwich and met Ian who put us to work. Some of us helped seed bare patches of grass and others helped move some sand. Our treat at the end of was a game of touch rugby and a chocolate! Those who did the run back we went via Dawsons heights to check the view of the London skyline at sunset.

On a balmy Tuesday evening, a squad of eight set off from the Aquatics Centre for a classic GoodGym combo: run, task, teamwork, impact.

This week’s destination? The ever-welcoming Hackney Marsh Adventure Playground, where we were met by the indomitable Ange — beaming with good news. The playground dates back to the 1970s, when a degree of risk taking and challenge was all part of the design philosophy. Lots of the structures at the playground that support this philosophy are in need of replacement and Ange has recently secured some funding that will support long-overdue redevelopment work.

Those who’ve been on previous tasks here may remember shifting a hefty stack of wooden piles to free up one area for works. This time, the redevelopment zone had moved to the entrance where we'd moved them, so naturally, it was time to move them again! (strategic rotation?)

Armed with gloves, grit, and GoodGym spirit, we made short work of not only the infamous wooden piles but a few other bits of timber, too. Classic GoodGym efficiency — in and out, job done.

Special shout-out to our trio of first-time GoodGymers: Bianca, Lise and Mark — great to have you along and hope this is the first of many! And a warm Newham welcome to Richard, joining us for the first time in the borough — strong debut energy all round.

This task is always a favourite. Ange’s commitment to the playground and her legendary organisation mean it’s a joy to return each time — even if the wood just keeps moving in circles. Thanks to everyone who came along and made light work of a weighty task. Until the next pile shift... ply on! 🪵

Next week, we’re making a long-awaited return to the brilliant UP Garden — an award-winning community hub that’s been transformed from a disused laundry yard into a urban oasis for local residents. It’s always a pleasure to visit, and our host Suze will no doubt have a good list of tasks! 💪

Last night for our group run, we went to a block of flats in Kennington Park Road, to help the community there with their garden.

Firstly, we met at Old Spike which was the start of our run. We welcomed some newbies Diana, Sam and Nancy. Then after a quick warm up, we split into two groups and set off to Kennington at two different paces. Daryl's group were first to arrive, also meeting them there was James, Lindy and Richard. They all got stuck in the the first task, which was to move a shed. Diana, Nelly and I joined after. We all were given a variety of different tasks: moving soil, assembling furniture, trimming bushes and raking leaves.

Sandy and the rest of the TRA were really happy to have us. We made a big difference in the short amount of time. Well done all!