Like every year, we have been asked to join the Kingston Round Table to lend some elves to help guide their Santa's Sleigh through the streets of Kingston, to bring some cheer while knocking on doors to collect some donations.

So tonight, Emily and I braved the cold and rainy evening with our festive elf ears on and skipped our way to various different homes. We were greeted with friendly neighbours who kindly donated their money, while calling for Santa to surprise some young children. Some children were shy and star-struck while one little boy was so excited to see Santa that he was willing to run out without his coat and shoes! 😆

It is always so lovely to hear the sweet giggles that children make and see their faces light up whenever they see the jolly, bearded man in red.

So let’s get our bells on and bring on Christmas!

We brought the festive sparkle to Jubilee Square today, helping to set up for the upcoming Christmas party.

On arrival we were trusted with the huge responsibility of decorating the Christmas tree with baubles and lights. This was somewhat more challenging than expected, given the tree was at least a foot above the height we could reach from the ladder - time for some creative flair!

We worked in order: tinsel first, followed by the baubles, and finally the lights. The bonus being that we got to do it all in the glorious sunshine. The tree is now sparkling and ready for the celebrations.

On my way, down the streets collected some rubbish.

Today's task took us to Raleigh House for Stay Well New Malden a wonderful day centre supporting elderly people in the community. Our mission: tackle the mountain of leaves under the giant oak tree… without any rakes. Challenge accepted.

The dream team — Jana, Emily, Eleanor and Sabir arrived ready to take on whatever autumn could throw at us. With no rakes in sight, we got inventive: hands, shovels, scoops, teamwork, determination… you name it, we used it.

The oak tree clearly hadn’t read the memo, because it continued to drop leaves while we were clearing them. It was a bit of a leafy battlefield, but we kept at it and made solid progress.

Not stopping there, we also weeded the plants at the front entrance, clearing out the unwanted visitors and giving the space a much fresher look.

There were plenty of smiles exchanged, lots of teamwork, and a great sense of achievement by the end of our hour. Hopefully our efforts help brighten the surroundings for the Raleigh House community.

Unbe-leaf-able work, team! 🌿💪

Today Anna and I tackled some nettles and brambles cutting them, thus clearing them from overhanging on the square and causing health and safety issues. We creating a edge free of grass and swept up round about for a tidy finish. Meanwhile Saber helped some other voluteers and Duke of Edinburgh award persons to bag up budleia and other jobs. A good mornings work followed by a catch up.

Brought and dropped milk as low in the food bank this week.