This was an extra special mission as it was the first GoodGym good deed for Elizabeth - congratulations and I hope you enjoy all of the badges that reward you for your early Saturday morning effort.

I was feeling bad for my lack of effort as I had been reminded to wear something festive for the last parkrun before Christmas, but I had forgotten. I'm sure I earned points for the good list by getting up early to set up the course for the runners, even though I lacked even a festive hat to join in (does the red GG top count?) but along the way I found someone who had definitely made the naughty list. Well, the proof they had been there at least was a big pile of dog mess right in the middle of the course, which I had to put some cones around and tip off the marshal about to take up a nearby spot. Still, at least if anyone put their foot in it, they might have been grateful for the huge and unavoidable puddles of water on the course.

When I got back to the start, Elizabeth was getting prepared to take the first timers briefing. We got our photo taken by Perry Hall volunteering and cheering legend Phil, and then she gave the speech, and a lot of reassurance after to the nervous 'very' first timers who were there today.

Having done our good deeds, we were both able to take part in the 5k, both not pushing it too hard due to injury and illness recovery respectively, and lots of people had a great run in a variety of Christmas outfits, getting even sweatier than usual.

I will be putting up more community missions for Perry Hall parkrun over Christmas and very much into the new year. If you want to get involved, sign up for one and you can get more information by joining the Birmingham Whatsapp group.