We set off a little late for Totnes on this cold grey morning, mainly owing to Oliver's late appearance at the start. After negotiating the many Easter Day pedestrians on the riverside track we paused briefly to buy lunch and then pressed on with good speed to Harbertonford. The main road to Halwell would have been a little faster, but the constant stream of holiday traffic quickly persuaded us to take the scenic lane route via Moreleigh.

Tao, who had first suggested Blackpool Sands to his rather sceptical comrades, began to feel vindicated as the predicted sunny periods began to break out on the descent to Strete. Lunch on the beach was certainly bracing, the stiff breeze proved more than a challenge for the youngsters trying to fly their kite, but the bright sunshine and lofty waves made the whole experience highly enjoyable. Further entertainment was provided by the beach's regular lunchtime swimmer, making his appearance at 12.30 exactly as he has done for more than 15 years.

It wasn't the weather to be hanging around for long, but half way up the hill towards Stoke Flemming we noticed a pair of benches situated in a sheltered position overlooking the bay. We just had to sit there for a while and contemplate how much warmer the spot would have been for lunch.

The back lanes and tracks through Little Dartmouth offered the usual spectacular views of the coast and an exhilarating descent to the picturesque town. While searching the many cafes for one that was not overflowing with tourists we bumped into Michael's cousins, down from Bristol for the weekend. We managed to find a table and chairs outside the Station restaurant overlooking the river, bustling with boats and activity of all kinds.

We took the Higher Ferry to Kingswear for 50p each, but Tao, who is never happy on boats, was feeling none too comfortable as he gazed down at the frothing water. We did get an excellent view of Thomas the Tank Engine, pulling its carriages to and fro along the track.

From Hillhead we called in briefly at Sainsburys for drinks and the proceeded up Kings Ash hill to Marldon and the lanes to Staverton. This has been our first full-length ride since September, so we all felt very satisfied as we arrived home, tired but full of the joys of spring.