Last night was a GoodGym Hounslow first as we got to build our very own haystack! Although it very nearly didn't happen...

After a nice warm run down to the park where the route was kindly marshalled by the people working for the huge secret cinema event happening in Gunnersbury Park, we arrived to find a load of rakes waiting for us. So far, so good.

Off we set on our merry way, until we realised the directions were slightly more complicated than my tiny mind could cope with. Luckily we had Gunnersbury guru Chris to figure it out (ie properly read my email) and after a long old hike and an even longer discussion about what exactly a trapezoid is, we eventually found the place we were meant to be (we think. Hope).

We got stuck into an intense raking session which was also a surprisingly good arm workout, and soon had the makings of a very pleasing haystack. We are reliably informed that the reason the grass needs stacking is so that it doesn’t decay back into the soil, thereby replenishing the nutrient levels. The patch of ground we worked on was fertilized a few years back, and, without heavy management including pesticides it will get overrun with weeds. So all that raking will create a better environment for a more natural mix of meadow plants which would otherwise be out competed. So there you go - a great hay-based task!

Next week we have a community mission at Turnahm Green, and next weekend there is also the opportunity to volunteer at Osterley junior parkrun. Happy GoodGyming, one and all.