14 people ran 5k to do some litter picking for the Canal and River Trust

Last night we met at a slightly earlier time so we could get back for the England game. It was great to welcome Kyley along for the first time, please give her a cheer. The idea was to do a bit of 'plogging'. What this means is pick some litter up as you run. Well we did have to stop a bit, as it is difficult to run and pick litterat the same time, but basically it was a quicker litter pick than usual. Due to the warm weather there was plenty of litter down there, so next week we can finish the job.

We dumped the bags off at the Aston Lock as usual before running back taking in some interval training. Firstly it was some hilly intervals (yes Brum canals do have hills!) After that it was some flat sprints. Richard showing a great burst of speed. Liam put in a great effort wearing his England shirt with pride. Nicola and Kyley put in a dogged performance in the searing heat (it was 28 degrees again in Brum yesterday!!) Once done we had a steady run back to 1000 Trades.

On arrival we had Karin (checking out Sweden's opponents for the next round!), George and Aaron join us. We had the upstairs room booked with a big TV, so a great spot to watch the game. The drama to unfold was quite amazing. England deservedly went 1-0 up, after Colombia's very dirty tactics. Then when it felt comfortable, I basically gave the 'kiss of death' saying 'ive never been so confident that England would win'! Big mistake, Colombia from nowhere stuck one in the onion bag! Noooooooo! The atmosphere in the room went very quiet as everyone watched extra-time. The dreaded penalties arrived and England 'never' win penalty shoot-outs! When Jordan Henderson missed I think we were all resigned to the same old story. Only for Colombia to hit the bar and then there next one was saved. If Eric Dier scored we would win! Everyone held their breath.......but he scored, I went crazy, as did everyone else. What a win!! What an amazing night, I don't think my heart rate has come down yet! Now it's on to Sweden on Saturday, Come on England (sorry Karin!).

Next week we will be out doing good again at the slightly earlier time of 5.45pm, the upstairs room is booked for the 1st World Cup semi-final, it would be great if you could join us sign up here.