Someone was being optimistic when they chose Ponsworthy as the destination for this afternoon ride. No-one really expected to get there, but in the event we got quite close.

The outward route was through Hembury Woods (just to make everyone happy), with half the group taking the track alternative to Hembury's enormous hill. Edward seemed to regret it afterwards, as it was a bit muddier than usual, but the rest seemed happy enough.

When we arrived at Spitchwick it was decision time: should we try for the destination or take a shorter route home? Since all present were performing well in the mild weather we decided to go on, tackling the second enormous hill of the day through Leusdon. There were some complaints from the rear of the group, it proving necessary to stop at Lesudon Lodge for refreshments to spur them on to the top.

Time was definitely pressing on arrival at Leusdon Common. We were just a stone's throw away from Ponsworthy, but the descent of another hill would have brought us home after dark. Richard took half the group back to New Bridge along the (now famous) Dr Blackall's Drive whilst Michael took the others straight down Poundsgate Hill.

The return via Peartree was punctuated by a broken rear axle (Martin's) and the delayed return of the energetic bunch, but at least we got home before darkness fell. Hopefully everyone found something of interest in this varied ride.