This task found us at our regular location St James's Gardens, the graveyard of the Anglican cathedral that is a much-appreciated oasis in the city for many. The day leading up to this task was filled with suspense as we anxiously checked various weather forecasts, trying to work out what we'd be dealing with. A storm was predicted for the evening, but it seemed it would clear up and be sunny by 7pm. After our last scheduled session at St James's was called off due to the weather we were really hoping to go ahead tonight.

The runners - Sophie, Sian, Dan and Bekah - met at the Suitcases at 6:30pm and were greeted by both sunshine and a sudden downpour. We got soaked but dried out quickly as it was warm, and luckily it stayed calm for our task, where we were joined by Steph, Lucien, Ellie and today's task owner Vikki, combining her roles of GoodGym member and Friends of St James's leader, alongside two Friends volunteers.

Vikki's plan was for us to clear brambles and litter from an archway. Considering the immense tangle of bramble we faced, she was worried that it would be too big a project for one session, but we all got stuck in and were finished in under half an hour. It was a really satisfying task as we transformed the area, revealing two gravestones marking the resting places of the Cow and McKinsley families that had previously been completely buried in thorns. Everyone did a great job and we were not put off by encountering a pair of soiled shorts and an unidentifiable furry object along the way! I do think that we earned the appreciation we got from passers-by, including someone who offered to donate trees in the future.

With this task completed we still had lots of time left over for weeding and scraping between flagstones, and Steph taught us some local history by pointing out the gravestones of Edward Rushton who set up the first school for the blind, and Robert Cain who opened a brewery. As we gathered for the team photo we realised that it was a very special occasion - every GoodGym member was wearing their GoodGym T-shirt! Well done to everyone for their hard work tonight, especially Vikki for leading, Bekah for organising, Sophie for leading the run, and Steph for bravery in turning up despite the storm forecast.

Goodgym Liverpool has long supported the Friends of Everton Park in maintaining the beautiful park and supporting Everton Community Garden, which grows food and encourages the local community to learn about and grow plants, fruit and vegetables. Task leader John very kindly invited us to Groundworks Art Exhibition which took place in the garden, and was produced by one of their gardeners who is an art student at the University of Liverpool.

Several members were able to make what turned out to be a beautiful evening. There were 5 artists and plenty of exhibitions, including a heart warming tribute to an artist's Grandmother. The gardens generously provided a BBQ and drinks, and Dike even got to make his own pot on a home made pottery wheel! It was super inspiring to hear the motivation and commitment of the students, and we admired the wide range of plants and vegetables available for the local community to take home.

It was a lovely evening of sun, chat and great company. Many thanks to the FoEP for including us in this fabulous exhibition, and a round of applause to the students for their hard work and fabulous exhibits.

On this beautiful Monday evening, we headed back to Everton Park to help out Friends of Everton tackle the unwanted brambles and trees.

Armed with clippers and Saws we split into two teams to tackle two key areas of the park. It was great to welcome newbie Jessica - looking forward to see you at another task soon!

One area of the park required us to clear the brambles from the orchard, so the fruit trees could thrive. The other, to clear the trees so the Love Everton sign was visible for all!

The difference was astounding - excellent work team! However, we didn't quite get to the bottom of it, so we will be back soon!

Rather unexpectedly there was a bit of an incident when a Goodgym member's belongings had gone missing. Fortunately quick thinking and commendable reactions rectified the situation, and ultimately no damage was done. But one takeaway was the support of the whole Goodgym team, who pulled together to respond and support each other. It really demonstrated the adaptability and team-spirit of the group, and was lovely to see how well GG members look after each other.