My first starter session as Newham Trainer was a wonderfully quintessential GoodGym task. Shifting roughly 50 bags of soil for Mobile Garden City.

Had the pleasure of meeting Charlene. She made it out for her first GG run and reckons there's a few more in her - big bravo in order. Patrick the GG vet and continual do-gooder made a cameo. As did Brad for his second run of the week, like a boss Brad.

We warmed up, did a little safety chat, then discussed our favourite cake. Victoria Sponge, Blueberry Cheesecake (is this really a thing?), Sticky Toffee Pudding and Lemon Drizzle cake from me. Mine was partly true, but more a front to be original, a massive thick slice of rich and creamy chocolate cake is what I meant.

Moving on...we jogged the mile over to Mobile Garden City with ease. New runner Charlene was chatting with no problem which is a good indication that she wasn't knackered, this bodes well. We entered the spacious gardens and went straight to the poly tunnel, where explicit instructions lay before us. Shifting compost bags around the garden, about 50 of them probably weighing just above 15kg. We employed a host of carrying techniques, over the shoulder (a bit unbalanced). The barrower (good shoulder workout, v tough when using wheel barrow with flat wheel). The East London Bear Hug (great weight distribution and temporarily alleviates feelings of loneliness). We smashed all 50ish bags in sub 30mins, took some funny pictures, then ran off into the night.

Even though there was only 4 of us this week, can't underestimate how useful this work is for the garden. Normally they have one gardener there a couple times per week, they stand no chance for large labour jobs as an individual. But our half hour of power makes things tick over that vital extra little bit. They're opening up at their new location next week, will be giving out harvests to the community...you guys are conducive to that happening. Respect.

Next group run, sign up here. We are heading to Mobile Garden City again, we've been promised veg too. Expect a lovely interval session after.

Next starter session - sign up here. Exact task details still being decided here.

Tomorrow's Parkrun at 9am sharp start, sign up here

Right - enough signing up now. See you beauts soon.

B