A few Goodgym members committed to clean up local green spaces and streets in the month of October well done for your efforts shall we do it again for November. Check out photos and stories

This August, GoodGymers from across England each grabbed a bag and headed out for a litter pick in their own patch. From parks to pavements, every small effort helped make local spaces cleaner, greener, and friendlier for everyone.

It was proof that even a few minutes of action can leave a lasting impact. We’ll be running the challenge again in September — so why not join in, pick up a bag, and see how much good you can do in your area?

15 GoodGym Barnet members took part in this year’s Big Butterfly Count (18 July–10 August), adding our sightings to the UK-wide citizen science survey. I managed three counts myself—numbers were low in my patches, so I’m keen to see the national results.

Butterflies are brilliant indicators of environmental health, helping scientists track the effects of climate change, habitat loss, and pollution. Early reports suggest a good year for gatekeepers, red admirals, and peacocks, plus a UK first—the southern small white fluttering in from southern Europe!

Citizen science is easy, fun, and open to all—you don’t need to be a runner or an expert. Next year, let’s get even more people involved: friends, family, neighbours… the more counts, the better the data.

Thanks to everyone who took part—your 15 minutes really can help protect our environment.

🦋 Count them, love them, protect them.