We rode up the hill to Ilsington from the Bickington pick-up, then four decided to take the Pinchaford track to Haytor.

One of the youngsters found a crow with a broken leg by the side of the road. After some discussion Michael put it in his pannier and we all rode to Hound Tor where we hoped the ice cream van may be able to help. To our surprise there was a policeman there too and he took charge of the situation: he put the bird in an empty box that he got from the ice cream van, went immediately to his radio and was soon to be seen speeding towards Moretonhampstead. Lucky crow!

We continued our ride to Jay's Grave where fresh flowers were once again on display, then took the rough track to Natsworthy. The Safety Team were very impressed by the youngsters who waited three times for pedestrians without having to be prompted.

Numerous Skylarks sang and fluttered around while we had lunch by the stream, then we set about the climb of Hamel Down and the traversal of the fabulous track that runs along the top. Judging by the number of foals around the moor today, this must have been a good year for Dartmoor Ponies.

After drinks at the Green café in Widecombe we took the short route home via Widecombe Hill.

[This report never previously published - please tell us if you see any errors]