What a joy to get a horse pun for a task at the stables on the same day as the big Tyne and Wear derby!

It was so great to get a big turnout for our first Saturday session of the year, and a big welcome to Sophie who has been wanting to give us a try for ages. Welcome Sophie, you did a brilliant job of getting stuck in today!

It was a session of two teams today, both of which united in one wish- helping our good friends at Stepney Bank Stables. This community stables is not only our group run base but does loads of amazing things in and around Newcastle. Two tasks were requested today- take down the Christmas tree and decorations, and sweep out the ramp from the stables to the yard. While most people made a choice, I nominated Elliott (sorry!) to be in charge of the tree as he was an expert when we put the tree up back in December. Knowing what an overcomplicated jigsaw it had been on the way up would definitely help for the way down.

The sweeping team outdoors got cracking on a very physical job clearing hay, mud and water from the path for a full body workout in chilly sunshine. The before and after photos today show how much muscle went into this bit.

Anna had the genius idea back indoors to wrap and bind the sets of branches for the tree to make the assembly of the tree a little easier next Christmas, and it definitely went back in the box much easier than it came out.

With both tasks finished within 40 minutes I was feeling generous and offered a choice of fitness sessions, with a little interval workout coming out on top. Lots of squats, running and a few nose-to-walk press ups helped to warm up the group after a very chilly task.

We are back at Stepney Bank Stables on Monday where we are meeting to head off on a quayside litter pick. We’d love to see you, hope you can make it.