We took the fast route to Chudleigh and then the scenic Teign Valley road to Steps Bridge. Woodland tracks quickly brought us to a lunch spot by the river Teign from where Gavin had to return home by the same route in order to get back for a 3pm meeting.

The track continued through immense glades of bluebells that carpeted the whole woodland floor and then brought us quickly to a short section of tarmac. It wasn't long before we were back on the tracks again, following the river on the south bank for what seemed like miles of often rocky terrain - Tao really wished for his off-road tyres. Fingle Bridge was busy with tourists so we pressed on to the path that took us high up the side of the valley, where extensive woodlands could be seen for miles and Castle Drogo dominated the distant horizon. The twisty track descent over the next few miles was as much fun as it always was, but all good things have to end sometime.

Chagford offered hospitality in the form of the refurbished Old Forge Tea Rooms. The food was reasonable, but £2.25 for a very medium-sized hot chocolate was even more expensive than the Primrose at Lustleigh! The policy for all Dartmoor cafes seems to be to charge the highest price that the market will stand. The proprietor kept us entertained by watering his hanging baskets with a very small watering can, having to climb his steps three times for every pot!

With the sun coming out we sped home past Hound Tor with a tailwind that made us all feel on top of the world. Oliver, who had failed to get up in time for the start of the ride, came down to meet us to finalise our plans for the summer tour. Now it seems we are going to Norway on 4 July, so Michael had better get the bookings sorted out in double quick time.