A positively jovial time on East London's waterways yesterday. With a smashing three new people, plus a few returning for their second and third run, it was all smiles as we realised just how much more we could get done with this enlarged and effervescent team.

Random Weekly Question this week: "What phobias do you have?" It did not disappoint, some fantastically unique answers peppered amongst the usual fears of arachnids and vertigo sufferers. Siobhan's dislike of buttons, love it, don't get it, but love it. Eva's wool on the teeth fear, Mel's dislike of James' fungal feet, Kev's spine chilling moment he sees a centipede, or worse a millipede. Charlotte's anxiety about grey cloud matter and Ruth's fearsome foe - loud noises. A unique bunch we are!

A few light sprints later and we'd made it to Old Ford Lock. Following the waft of barbecue aroma we met the main man, Ross. He dished out some bags, those litter claws and we dispersed down the canal paths in search of litter. You guys did a really meticulous job, and you needed to, as there wasn't that much glaring rubbish to dispose of. All those cigarette buds, bits of plastic, chewing gum bits etc make a difference. Small birds are known to choke on said small matter, so every little bit adds up.

We were all done and dusted by 8pm, but stayed on for the kindly laid out food spread. A lovely touch by the canal trust guys. Into the darkness we ran back to base ...and straight to a low-key social at the cow. A really lovely evening.

Next week, I'm not here but mincing around in France, Kev and Sharon have kindly agreed to cover for me. It's our classic Primary School Task, sign up here They've begun knocking down the old nursery as they ready the site for a new and improved centre of learning/play to go up instead.

Have a smashing week ahead people, eat up some miles this weekend and make the most of the warmth. Winter is coming.

B