Seven years ago I went along to this thing called Goodgym to see what it was all about...I liked it, the people were interesting and humble and that evening we made a big impact on a local churchyard. As a participant I got to know my town better, I got to know the skills and enthusiasm people brought to Goodgym not to mention the improvements to my physical and mental health.

In 2016 I was coming towards the end of a BA in Social Work. I was supported by my family but nevertheless it was time when I had to complete 170 days of unpaid placements in a stressful job. It was and still is a job that make you appreciate the charities that Goodgym support. It is those charities that help glue together what is a depleted health and social care system.

But this is a celebration and Goodgym to me is like a weekly Pride or a peaceful protest in its beautiful simplicity and the way it stands as a role model. I have been thinking about the highlights but I think this report would be too long. Here's a summary:

• new friends (and love)
• painting rooms
• digging allotments
• planting bulbs
• wrapping presents
• singing Christmas Carols
• running races
• marshaling Parkrun
• coach running
• supporting refugees
• going to Shindigs
• Goodgym Games/Olympics

I could go on but fast-forward to Goodgym today and it has grown in strength and what it stands for. There is a strong environmental drive, a proven improvement in members health and a national weekly measurable impact.

The next chapter is still to be written. Colchester became a city and the role of charities has increased in necessity. Our city has become an vibrant contrast...a new restaurant and cafe vibe, theatre, arts and music shining through but homelessness and poverty also still rising. Colchester has many socially and environmentally conscious people but a sense disconnect and difference also exists.

I hope Goodgym can grow and keep being useful.