The heavy overnight rain had stopped by 9am but there were still strong winds and occasional showers when the ride began so we decided to run a local day ride in preference to the planned car-assisted trip to The Camel Trail in Cornwall. The youngsters were keen to get the miles up in preparation for our tour next week so we set off up Green Lane with the idea of going to Fermoys garden centre at Ipplepen. A friendly dog at the traveller encampment on the track to Well Cottages insisted on following us for over a mile before we finally managed to leave it behind.

The youngsters were still wanting the longer ride at Staverton so we pressed on up the final hills to Ipplepen and arrived at the garden centre by around 12.15. We took our time enjoying hot food and drinks at the café and then looking at the many inhabitants of the pet store.

It was 1.40 when we finally set off for home, returning via Denbury and Broadhempston. The short time we spent in Broadhempston Play Park was notable mainly for Dillan’s not-so-clever throw of our rocket, which missed George and ended up in a nearby garden that was patrolled by aggressive-sounding dogs. The owner kindly returned home from the pub to retrieve it for us.

Michael was amazed that the youngsters not only coped well with the final hills to Buckfastleigh but were still full of energy by the time we reached Crofters! Congratulations to everyone who took part: this was your longest ride with the club so far. You are now properly prepared for the tour next week and some more longer rides in September.