Colston road brought us quickly to Dartington on this perfect winter morning. David's request for a cafe stop at the Cider Press centre could not be fulfilled as both cafes there were closed, so we pressed on along the cycle path, pausing briefly while the younger rides enjoyed the islands near the weir. Will caused some concern by dashing on to the end of the track without telling anyone, but once we were all reunited again we continued to Totnes and settled down in the lower cafe near Somerfield. David added class to the morning by read the paper in a most civilised manner.

For the return route we crossed the Dart and headed for Littlehempston. We soon reached Puncture Alley - the track shortcut that caused so many punctures on a ride last year - and as usual Michael advised taking the road. Several ignored the warning of course, so it was no surprise at all when Will got a puncture. Half the group had gone on to the next junction, and since Tao had forgotten his puncture kit there was a slight delay while Gavin chased after them. If only Tao had remembered the mobile phone a little earlier ..!

The weather was so pleasant that nobody minded waiting around. Soon we were setting off again for home and a rather late lunch.