Digging trenches in compacted stony ground is difficult enough in normal conditions and takes even more determination after a heatwave, leaving the soil dry and hard – but we triumphed! Thanks to a fantastic show of GoodGym energy and muscle power, we dug deep not just once (lifting away top soil) but twice (loosening lower level soil and incorporating organic matter), helping to create the perfect conditions for rapid growth of new saplings soon to be planted at the Ladywell Fields Tiny Forest. Equally impressively, we pounded into place another 10 posts ready for fencing to be installed around the site of the forest extension.

This was a first ever task for Meriel – welcome to GoodGym! There will be plenty more opportunities for all of us to help with double digging and other tasks supporting this ambitious community-led project before planting day in early December.