It's like a heat wave Burning in my heart (It's like a heat wave)

Area Activator Simon and Giovanna met at the Arsenal Community Hub on probably the warmest evening of the year so far, ready for a group run to the lovely Highbury Quadrant Estate project, near Clissold Park. We crossed the Emirates Stadium plaza together, and took on Highbury Hill with ease (chatting is always a welcome distraction when climbing slopes!), before approaching "The Meadow".

Simon opened up the gates and picked out:

• a hosepipe and reel
• litterpickers
• a broom
• a dust pan and brush
• loads of keys and hose lock attachments for the slightly complex watering system at Highbury Quadrant!

During this time, we met with Anne and Emily on route to "The Orchard", a beautiful plot dedicated to food cultivation, herb growing and bulb propagation. Tomatoes, carrots, spinach, green beans and lettuce are currently being grown here, and have been thriving in the sunny climate. Simon and Giovanna set up the hose connections near the main building complex, while Anne and Emily made sure the water source was working and operational. We then proceeded to soak the whole of the orchard (particularly in the green house and the planters dedicated to new plants) to prepare the soil for another week of scorching weather (the scent of water on dry soil smelled really great- super refreshing!).

While Giovanna worked on plant watering, Anne and Emily helped with litter picking across the main woodland section of the orchard (home to a fox family, I believe), and then sweeping up the entrance to the gardens too. Within an hour, the four of us had made a real difference- super satisfying work!

We locked up the Meadow together, and parted ways- Simon and Giovanna completed their 2.5 mile round trip back to the Emirates before calling it a night. Well done all!

Come and join us next week for another smashing group run- this time we will be heading to Caledonian Park for some pond building!

Sign up here for more info:

https://www.goodgym.org/happenings/group-run-cally-clocktower-park-pond-building