Today’s mission saw me cycling in from Lewes along the old Rover Road – a route that turned out to be unexpectedly challenging, thanks to a surprise 200-step slope that required me to carry my bike! But once I arrived at Mrs J’s house, the real task was thankfully a lot easier.

Joined by the ever-cheerful Sherman, we got to work widening a gap in Mrs J’s privet hedge. The aim? To make space for her bins to be collected easily, sparing her the need to drag them up steep steps every week.

Mrs J was a warm and welcoming host, introducing us to her lovely dogs and daughter. She’d sadly lost her husband the year before and had reached out for help through the estate. We were glad to be there.

With a pair of shears, some teamwork, and a bit of pruning finesse, we got the job done in good time. It was simple, satisfying work – one of those small acts of kindness that just feels right.

As a North London GoodGymer, it was a real pleasure to do a bit of “GoodGym tourism” down in Brighton – enjoying the ride, meeting new faces, and being part of a community that always finds a way to make a difference.

Thanks to Sherman and to Brighton for the warm welcome!