7 runners gathered in the lobby of Solutions gym to embark on a longer than usual run to the peppermint centre in Valley Park to weed and fork the community beds.

Intro and briefing completed we went outside to warm up for our run, after which we set off towards West Croydon. On the way I telephoned Pam to let her know we were on our way. When we arrived at the centre Pam was there with tools ready and waiting for us. Little did we know it wouldn't just weeding and forking it was also a harvest. We harvested beet roots, sweet potatoes and regular potatoes. As we worked Pam told us of how the beds got started and also about the future plans for the centre. Listening to Pam speaking so passionately about her plans and the facilities that will be available to the local community was very touching. I am sure we will be along to offer our assistance once all the finer details are are ironed out. Amidst all the chatting and laughing we completed the task and took a photo of what we had done and our harvest. Then set off running back to solutions for our fitness session and cool down stretches.

Well done to Ian and Ingrid for completing the Croydon 10K on Sunday.

It was good to see Louise (GG Lewisham) and Aaran (GG Richmond) coming back for a second visit as always a warm Croydon welcome was extended to them. Are we gaining two more members?

It was also pleasing to meet two members who had recently signed up to GoodGym but was unable to join us on the group run today, came to get their documents checked so that they could be paired with coaches and engage in missions. Chris and James, welcome to the fold, hope you'll both be able to join us on a group run soon.

Have you seen my previous reports, in which I have been harping on about Run up to Christmas? I promise you I make no commission from the number of sign ups nor do I have anything to gain should you decide to sign up. However if you do sign up you would be contributing to a worthy cause while also managing to keep fit in the run up to Christmas, in time to over indulge in all the festive food and drink without feeling guilty as you can claim 25th, 26th and 27th December as your treat days. should you feel guilty afterwards just remember RED January is around the corner to kick start your new year fitness regime.

Next week we are off to either Thornton Heath Rec or Unique roots sign up here

Fancy doing a community mission? You do not have to be mission verified to participate in this one! It is open to all! check it out

Until next week keep running and doing good.