This was Daniel's first ride with us since last summer, but he was bubbling over with energy so we decided to aim for Fermoys restaurant just in case it proved an achievable target. Ben, who was now working towards his Stage 2 certificate, also had an eye on ticking off his 20-mile ride stage point.

Both boys rode well up the intimidating Caddaford Hill, through Staverton and on to Broadhempston. It was decision time, but the prospect of excellent cakes and drinks simply proved irresistible. After another hill that got both Daniel and Ben calling Michael names, we arrived at Fermoys by 11.45 and settled down in the sun-flooded garden to enjoy scones and freshly-squeezed orange juice.

Suitably refreshed we set off for the daunting return journey via Woodland and Ashburton, with both lads beginning to feel the pain. A few chocolate bars were required to coax them the last few miles, but they finally made it home by 2.30 having just achieved the target of 20 miles. This was not a ride that Daniel will forget.