New rider Ashley performed incredibly well on what turned out to be a very long first ride. We took the flattest, most direct route to Fermoys to maximise our chances of reaching a destination that many members had been asking to visit for several weeks. Ultimately, reaching it did not prove a problem, and the availability of half-priced roast meals for the children meant that everyone was thoroughly rested and recharged before we started on the journey home.

Louis and James had the most difficulty with the last few miles, mainly because they had pushed themselves to come on the ride even though they were suffering from colds. Nevertheless we got everyone home by a reasonable time.