With the threat of Storm Bert heading our way, 7 GoodGymers wrapped up warm to head out this morning for some parkrun volunteering. As an incentive Leanne brought along some delicious cake for us, even though she wasn't joining us for the task. What a superstar! Rich wasn't allowed to be left unattended with it though, in case it all mysteriously disappeared before we'd finished our parkrun duties. We reconvened after a fantastic 580 runners had made their way round a very muddy course. Robert selected some cake before heading off for the day, Sallyann was off to visit her mum and the rest of us headed for our customary Wetherspoons breakfast to reward ourselves for our "hard" work. Eden was very excited to be having her second breakfast of the day, particularly as it was followed by cake. Andy realised he had too many layers on once we were indoors and was close to expiring so decided to take his home with him.

Ben brought along his donations for the reverse advent calendar collection for the foodbank. Anyone else who is contributing to the collection will need to get their donations to me this week please. If you are coming along to our task on Wednesday, I'm happy to take them then. We will be doing a leaflet drop followed by some leaving drinks for Joe who is off to the only English city to be excommunicated by the Pope. Make of that what you will!

Four of us nutters decided to do something a little different on a Wednesday night, but still a good deed, for Mid & North East Essex Mind. We signed up to walk on 1200 degree fire!

When we got there, Rich wouldn't shut up about his dry robe, Ben started to look nervous, Joe upset us all by moving telling us about his impending move to Norwich, and I hadn't had a baby yet.

After a great briefing from Cliff, we were ready. Ben sprinted across, Rich strava'd it and deservedly got a blister, I enjoyed the extra 200 degrees they put on for me, and Joe was Mr. Casual.

We also got pizza and a certificate! Find out more about Mind here: https://mnessexmind.org/ Amazing work offering hope and support for good mental health, so that no one feels alone.