Today, I had the chance to help pack bags of sugar at the Hounslow Community Foodbox. It was a simple task, but knowing that these small bags would become part of something bigger—something that could help improve lives—made it truly meaningful. The two other volunteers were incredibly kind and welcoming, guiding me through the process with patience and clear instructions since it was my first time. I’m already looking forward to going back whenever I have the chance.

One of the joys of GoodGym missions is discovering new outdoor spaces in the borough and finding out about their hidden history. Today's visit was to Thornbury Park in Isleworth, which it turns out achieved international fame in 1964 when the Beatles visited to shoot some iconic scenes, jumping in the air around a mocked-up helipad, for their first film, "A Hard Day's Night".

The crowds today may not have matched those who came to watch at the heights of Beatlemania but GoodGym Hounslow stalwarts Michelle and Alan were joined by Richmond newcomer Kc and several other local volunteers, including a fully uniformed group from the local police - whose presence gave us additional confidence for the security of our bikes.

We were there to help Thornbury Park Friends and Thames21 to complete a raingarden. Raingardens soak up and hold water runoff from paved surfaces (in this case, from the adjacent London Road) and so help reduce surface water flooding. Despite the name, they are usually dry and only hold water following high rainfall.

Our task today involved planting wildlife-friendly plants on top of the raingarden which will help improve biodiversity by attracting pollinators and other local species. Expertly guided by Toby from Thames21, the volunteers first of all arranged the potted plants in neat rows across the surface, then got to work digging and planting.

With excellent choreography and a large group of volunteers, the planting was done quickly and efficiently. Tea and biscuits were provided and it was great to chat to the Friends about other work planned in the park which we can hopefully return to help with in the future.