With Storm Bert bringing a bit of havoc over the weekend, we knew tonight’s task with brilliant Ouseburn Trust was in very good time. Ouseburn trust is responsible for keeping the Ouseburn area vibrant, safe and brilliant for both residents and commuters using the network of paths connecting Newcastle. We love lending them a hand, and even in the darkness of winter thanks to our trusty floodlights we are able to keep the partnership going.

Storm Bert stopping plans over the weekend was the topic of conversation when we met up tonight, forcing many of us hardy parkrunners to change, and in my case cancel, plans. I also shared plans for upcoming tasks as we head towards (whisper it!) our Christmas break.

Armed with head torches and lights and suitably layered up we headed off to meet task owner Dave for an epic tidy up session in the Ouseburn Valley. Split into two teams tonight, litter picking and maximising our step count for the day was Aimee, Damu, Max, Scott and I, while Tom and Jack got stuck into leaf sweeping with Dave. Keeping track of the group was easy enough though- just keep a look out for the head torches and you can’t go wrong! A really simple task this evening that covered a lot of ground and really made a difference.

As I missed our last social thanks to a stomach bug, a repeated visit to the Cumberland Arms followed this evening, a great chance to warm up and chat to round off an excellent start to the week.

If you’re around on Saturday morning there’s a great Urban Green Newcastle task at Leazes Park where we are getting some expert tool training as part of the session. Come and meet us any time from 10am.

A big warm welcome to Stefani on her first Goodgym session.

We were tasked with an old favourite of ours, giving the arena a big 'ol spruce up. This involves getting rid of cobwebs, dusting down barriers, and having a ride on the EV, much to Jacks delight!

Once we were finished up there, we had a quick love in with the horses, before cleaning out their grooming bags.

We rounded off a lovely evening by having a group photo with the deliciously cute pony, who was the mane attraction for sure!