This was our first full-day ride since September, and the first ever full-day ride for our two youngsters, Ben and Joe. We started out with Colston Road and the cycle path from Dartington to Totnes, stopping briefly at Safeways for the benefit of those who had forgotten (or got up too late) to bring a packed lunch. We checked out the Hot Pursuit cycle shop in Fore Street and were able to verify that it is indeed closing down and that there are indeed some useful price reductions on a number of items.

Our plan was to take the scenic Sharpham Drive path to Ashprington - difficult on the sections designated as footpath only, but infinitely more fun than the long climb up Totnes Downhill! As we arrived at the entrance we noticed, with much excitement, a new cycle path sign a little way down the hill. The route quickly re-joined our familiar path and took us along many newly-laid cycle paths that made the whole experience highly enjoyable. The final two styles and steep climb had been circumvented by a new cycle path that skirted around the edge of the field and offered excellent views of the river Dart. We'll certainly be including this path again on future rides.

Looking for a riverside lunch spot on the descent from Ashprington we noticed a footpath on the left that we had never previously explored. The owner of the nearby house confirmed that the path led to the river, and even offered us exclusive use of her private garden and picnic table overlooking the stepping stones! It really was a perfect spot for lunch. Ben provided us with entertainment by struggling for a full 5 minutes to carry his bike across the stepping stones to the far bank of the creek.

The return route was always going to be tiring for Ben and Joe, but they coped admirably with Corkscrew hill and the subsequent climbs. Whilst they were close to breaking point after the final climb to Moreleigh, the flatter lanes to Diptford gave them new life. They both made it home, tired but very satisfied at their 27-mile achievement.