Five intrepid GoodGym members gathered at the Phoenix Cinema this evening, ready for a run with purpose. After a lively warm-up, we set off down East Finchley High Street towards our destination: the Finchley allotments, nestled behind some imposing steel gates.

Upon arrival, we were welcomed by Simon, our guide, who introduced us to Carmel. Carmel works for the Finchley Charities, a venerable institution established in the 1400s. It's awe-inspiring to think of the centuries of community support and good deeds this charity has provided, particularly through the Almshouses.

The charity recently acquired a plot at the allotments to grow food for the local Food Bank and create an educational space for school visits. It was our mission tonight to help clear the plot and prepare it for planting.

Split into two enthusiastic groups, we dug, weeded, and worked our socks off! Amidst the toil, I had a fascinating chat with John about the Almshouses in Barnet. His insights into their historical and current roles were enlightening and added an extra layer of meaning to our work.

After transforming the plot into a promising space for future crops and providing a hole for the pond we said our goodbyes and headed back. Our return run featured some fun Indian sprints, with the runner at the back sprinting to the front, keeping our energy high as we made our way back to the Phoenix Cinema for a final warm-down.

The rain kindly held off, and we wrapped up the evening with smiles all around, proud of our contribution to such a longstanding and impactful community project. Another GoodGym run well done!