Toby Hopper was showing off today. He had a new mountain bike, and wanted everyone to see it! We couldn't blame him though, for it really was very smart indeed.

A slight delay at Bickington (where we briefly met our friends from Torbay Section) was quickly followed by a tough climb to Haytor. Boot (Luke Hatherly) didn't like it at all, and was dragging off the back all the way just to prove the point.

Taking a wrong turning at Manaton gave us a unique opportunity to explore a new track. Needless to say we didn't pass it up, and were soon enjoying lunch in a sheltered, sunny corner of Hayne Down below the rocky outcrop which was our destination.

The climb to the tor, whilst being steep and quite rough, offered some excellent views of the surrounding countryside. There was then time to sit back and watch Richard Hopper (and others) attempting to climb Bowerman's Nose itself in a blustery breeze. He failed, of course, as the sides of the formation are sheer and without footholds, but we all enjoyed watching him try.

Descending quickly to the road we proceeded to Widecombe via the track from Jay's Grave, but here we were divided. Dave Robinson and son Philip were keen to visit The Green Restaurant, presumably in the hope of witnessing some more bizarre activities to liven up their diaries. About half the group decided to join him, and were not disappointed. Several dogs ran in and out of the kitchen even as we watched.

Peter, Dayle and a number of others decided the prices were too expensive and patronised the Wayside instead. We agreed with them, but chose instead to ask for a 10% discount. Amazingly it was granted - the prices were still extortionate, but now at least tolerable.

The final delight came when Michael offered to pay the lady at the check-out till. She asked him not to put the cash on the table, but on the wicker fan which was laid on it. This he did, whereupon the lady emptied the entire contents haphazardly into the till drawer in one deft movement. Richard, Dave and Michael could contain themselves no more, but did manage to wait until they were outside before bursting with laughter.

Several members wanted to ride Dr Blackall's Drive, but first they had to climb the steep hill from Ponsworthy. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the track, including young Arren who fell off a couple of times (not entirely his fault I might add).