We welcomed 4 first timers tonight on one of our longest and most challenging runs. Chelsea, Adam, Carey and Adrian joined us for their inaugural runs taking us through the Belstead Hills to Gusford School for tonight's task.

Before we left we acknowledged the efforts of all those who had participated in the Twilight 5k races which took place along the Waterfront throughout Saturday with a number of PBs being achieved.

The run out to the school was 2.5 miles and included a few inclines but they were happily embraced by everyone as we all know hills are good for us!

On arrival at Gusford school we were greeted by Rebecca and Pip, teachers at the school, and Rebecca explained the task was to clear a massively overgrown garden so the school could reclaim the area for learning and give the pupils an area to enjoy and chill.

Several of the school staff had also volunteered to help with the project so we had many hands to get stuck into what appeared to be a huge task..... but in true Goodgym style we achieved a huge amount, taking down massively overgrown bushes, weeds, grass and clearing old plant pots and accumulated litter. The only downside of the evening was discovering a deceased hedgehog among the debris, which Paul later reported to the Suffolk Wildlife Trust.

With a great deal done and the gratitude of Rebecca and Pip sending us off on the return leg of the run , we remembered the school was at the bottom of a viciously steep hill we had to climb immediately....what fun!

At least the main part of the return run was now downhill and we kept a steadily comfortable pace all the way back to base to complete a round trip of 5 miles.

Next week's run is much shorter as we return to Brickmakers Wood - find out more and sign up HERE