Well at first it was supposed to be a routine visit to the Peepul Centre. Then the Bridge asked us to do an urgent paint job so it was then to be a split task. Then the Bridge couldnt find anyone to let us in so we were back to a single task. Then the Bridge found someone after all so we were back to a split task. Then the Peepul Centre had to cancel at the last minute so we all went to The Bridge!!! - Phew.

An advance party of Lee and myself went direct to the Bridge to start prepping and to mee our host Patrick. My plan was to get Lee started then run into the DMU to pick up the group but the usual Tuesday traffic put paid to Patricks journey so it was a quick change of plan for Lindsay to lead the run.

With the rooms masked up and the dust sheets down 7 willing runners arrived slightly breathless and raring to get going.

There were mutterings of "arent we going to start with a watery base coat on the bare plaster" and "have we got any more masking tape, there is still more needs to be done" and " have you brought some steps Dave we will need them for the high bits" - It was clear that some of these runners had decorated before.

As is usually the case, with the job in hand explained, the group just picked a task and got stuck in.

Lee had already made inroads into the priming and he was soon joined by Lindsay and Frank on the doors. Team Roller consisted of Jen, Nic and Sharon who made short work of the emulsion. That just left the artists Katy an Rachel to do the detailed glossing of the skirting and architrave.

I have to say I was immensely proud of the care and attention paid to this job. We may be volunteers and we may be unskilled amateurs but it certainly doesnt stop us from doing the best job we possibly can.

In Mels absence Nic immediately put her hand up to take photos.

Sadly it was impossible to do a complete job due to drying times and the need to undercoat and prime etc but we have made a good start.

Patrick invited us downstairs for a cup of tea and gave us a talk about the work of the Bridge - over 60 rough sleepers regularly using the services of the Centre. What great work they do and it did strike me how nicely laid out the place was.

The back to town team was led by Lindsay leaving Lee and I to clean the tools and tidy up.

I got a call later that night from the manager Stuart to see how we had got on - he is very appreciative of our efforts - well done everyone.