18 runners and another night of double-tasks – Richmond GoodGym are in demand! First of all, though, Mark sent us all off down a dark alley to warm up. ‘Keep to the sides, off you go,’ he said cheerfully, waiting at the entrance as we trudged doubtfully into the darkness, dodging puddles on the way and keeping a wary eye out for rats. Having completed our circuit of the back alley and yard, he had us squatting, lunging and twisting in front of Richmond’s Christmas tree and then we were off up Richmond Hill and on our way to our Monday tasks.

Half the group were setting off to The Vineyard Community Centre, one of our favourite task owners, set in the heart of Richmond town and providing much needed services to the poorest in the community. That meant a shorter run at 5km but also a second hill climb. The other half of the group were heading to Alexander Care Home in East Sheen. A longer distance at around 8km, but a faster, flatter route.

The Vineyard group arrived to tables laden with Christmas wrap, bows and tinsel, hamper packs and snowflakes. Like a busy bunch of helper elves festively dressed in red, we enthusiastically set about our task of helping to get the centre ready for Christmas. With decorations to prepare and presents to wrap for Santa’s grotto, and food hampers to fill with delicious treats for the rubbish bin men, this little group of helpers barely had time to whistle a Christmas carol before we had to sprint back to base. That said, we did manage to squeeze in time for a tasty cupcake reward before we left (thanks, Desree). That’s not why we were late, Mark, honest…

Thanks Elaine, and whilst that sounds like "twas the night before Christmas" ; a strong army of red was running relentlessly the wrong way down a bigger alley (I am not sure who's fault this is yet I am still investigating). Finally arriving at our destination we were greeted by the lovely Donna at Alexander Care Home. With precise instructions our runners barely drawing breath from such a fast paced run said about leaf clearing and the emptying of hanging baskets. This was carried out with such precision , speed and focus that I barely had the chance to get my camera out to catch a few snaps!

Our team cleared the ankle deep leaves, scaled brick walls to remove the baskets and had Alexander House looking spit spot in just within the allocated time we had before we had to head back. Surprised to get back to Wholefoods before the Vineyard runners and then we remember that they would most likely be eating cake. We did not feel guilty at all for finishing the birthday chocolates from Jenna.

Richmond was awesome in tackling two tasks , a strong run and balancing cake at the same - well done to all! Great to see so many of you! Next week we are double tasked again so perhaps those that went to Vineyard tonight could let the others have a go (and maybe get cake.) A big welcome to Kate on her first GG Richmond run and welcome back to Natalie, Marie and Amy for their second run. Well done to Anita for the start of the pun!

Also need to mention, great work for those that jumped in as back runners tonight and now a few reminders...

TASKFORCE - Do you think you have what it takes to join the force. Please do let me know if you are interested in back running, marketing/social media, taking photos, writing the run report, organising social events or potential run leading.

Here is the link to the MISSION IMPOSSIBLE which I mentioned before the start of the run this evening https://www.goodgym.org/happenings/mission-impossible

Our last run of this year is on 11th December, and as mentioned we will be busting our lung capacity and we hark the herald angels and so will be in need of some vocal lubrication after our carol singing. Please do have a think about where we would like to toast one another a Merry Christmas.

Finally the run on 4th December is a 10km, if enough of you mention to me you would like a shorter then I will try to arrange a second task for that night at a shorter distance. If I do not get enough people it be a one task night.

What about Elaine on 57 runs and Jenna now achieving 50, you guys - just fantastic!