Two GoodGymers joined community groups and neighbours on the Alpha Road Estate to plant a network of fruit trees for residents to enjoy (in a few years time!)

We joined forces to plant out apples, plums, pears, apricots, medlars, gooseberries and more, all chosen by local ecologist and apple expert Alison Fure

We dug, we mulched, we planted, we staked out, and we posed for photos as even the local MP Ed Davey joined to lend a hand!

With the festive season wrapped up, our GoodGym team braved the freezing temperatures for a special mission to help a supported living home return to its usual safe and comfortable environment after the holidays.

After a brisk 3.7km run, we arrived at the home, where we were warmly welcomed and got straight to work. Our mission: clear away all traces of Christmas cheer (until next Christmas of course!).

We divided into task teams and got stuck in. Anna, Emily, Raquel, Claire, Jade, Emma, Maliyana and Hazel took down the window decorations, with Christmas shapes carefully removed, packed away, and saved for next Christmas’ celebrations. Once the windows were decoration-free, we gave them a good clean to let the winter light back in. And Luke gave the window sills a good clean too.

Next up was the Christmas tree, which was carefully taken down, by Jana, Anna and Ken, with all baubles, tinsel, and lights stored away safely, ready for another magical display next time. Outside, Martel, Luke and Ken tackled the outdoor Christmas lights, ensuring they were taken down safely and stored properly.

With everything packed away and the home back to its regular setup, the residents can now continue life safely following the festive period. And what better way to celebrate a job well done than with some well-deserved Haribo sweets all around?

It was hard to go back out into the cold and run back but we were energised by the community spirit aspect to the task. We promised we’d be back in December to put them all back up again!