The team of 15 GoodGymers arrived one by one at the Cranbrook Community Centre just off Roman Road.

It wasn’t long before our group had grown- we were delighted to welcome first-time GoodGymer Zeeshan.

The group promptly divided into three smaller teams to get stuck into the evening’s tasks under the watchful eye of task owners Janet and Eileen.

The first team got to grips with a furniture check... With the centre well-used by local groups and residents we wanted to check a stash of trestle tables were in good condition and safe to use. Each table was tested for wobble before returning them inside, after which the team put some energy into moving the bright and cheerful wendy house to a more suitable spot, before embarking on a thorough litter pick. A surprising amount to collect, the team kept at it, steadily clearing up the outdoor area, leaving it tidy for users of the community centre.

Outside the gates, another team turned their attention to the hedge that runs along the pavement. With branches starting to obstruct the pavement, the pruning team carefully trimmed them back, helping to keep the path safe and clear for pedestrians before heading around to the bin area with the many weeds and branches.

Meanwhile, the third group concentrated on leaf-picking around the garden borders. Over time, leaves tend to collect between the fences and the beds, so the team worked methodically to gather them up, leaving the edges looking neat and cared-for.

We worked quickly and productively for 45 minutes, then shortly before 8, we packed away the kit, gathered for that all-important group photo, and then headed out onto Mace Street. With the daylight fading, we enjoyed a top-to-toe stretching session to round things off.

Another great night in Tower Hamlets, thanks to Janet and Eileen and the wonderful Tower Hamlets GoodGymers.

We break for the Bank Holiday next week, but return to the fun Canal Club Community Garden on September 1st!

Until then.

One by one we arrived at the Canal Club Community Garden on Waterloo Gardens this evening.

The garden and surrounding areas of the community centre has become something of a local hub for growing, relaxing - and getting stuck into outdoor projects.

The centre itself is well-used hub that runs a wide range of local activities from youth projects to gardening and cookery workshops, with the garden being an important part of the centre.

After a quick hello and a look around, task owner Sally briefed us on tonight’s gardening tasks.

Dividing into three teams we made a start clearing the overgrown borders, weeding the paving stones and picking litter.

GoodGymers braved thistles, nettles, bugs and all manner of weeds in tidying up this pretty garden.

Our workout was completed with a few trips carrying full bags of nettles, weeds and soil to the bin lock-up around the corner.

To top it all off, we were treated to homemade lemon drizzle cake, fresh coffee and - for some – a brief dip in the small pool in the cherry tree garden...

Sally was the best task owner and host. What a lovely night.

Next week, we’re Limehouse-bound…

And just in – Rue’s speed session in Victoria Park this Thursday!

Have a good week!