Dismal forecasts proved inaccurate as we headed out through the Staverton lanes to Ipplepen on this sunny morning. As we enjoyed refreshments at Fermoys cafe Joe looked at the map and thought he would like to continue to Paignton. We took the lanes through Compton and then enjoyed spectacular views across the bay on the descent to Preston.

The beach was busy with wind surfers, dogs and seagulls as we enjoyed our lunch on the sand, sheltered from the chill breeze by one of the beach huts. We could have stayed longer of course, but we half respected the forecast of heavy rain by late afternoon and so set off for Collaton St Mary with all due speed.

Joe showed outstanding tenacity as he pushed himself up the first climbs towards Redpost, and soon he was setting a good pace back to Staverton. Two steam trains passing each other at the station were a sure sign of brisk business on the Primrose line on this last Sunday of the holiday week. Whilst the forecast rain did not materialise until later, a particularly nasty shower did its best to dampen our spirits on the final two miles home.