What better way to celebrate midsummer night than by joining in the green-fingered team spirit of a community session tending a flourishing Tiny Forest? GoodGymers Alastair from Southwark, Ria from Bromley and Linda from Lewisham spent a happy hour weeding in the evening sunlight at Ladywell Fields alongside local volunteers of all ages – the youngest a curious toddler and the eldest an enthusiastic grandma.

A Tiny Forest is made up of around 600 densely planted native saplings and each and every one received careful attention from the team, who cleared tall-growing weeds and unwound invasive bindweed from the slender trunks, helping to ensure the seven-month-old trees can continue growing stronger. With the weeds out of the way, we were able to admire the leafy branches of the different tree species taking shape, including still tiny hollies and oaks already bearing their first acorns.

By this time next year much of the forest will, with favourable conditions, be taller than the younger volunteer “Tree Keepers”, providing a rich habitat for wildlife and a valuable carbon-absorbing green space. Looking forward to return visits over the coming months!