Everyone was up for a longer ride again today, but with some having to be back by early afternoon we decided on Widecombe as a destination. The ride started with the climb from Ashburton to Cold East Cross, but as we rose over the top to the open moor the cold headwind became particularly tiresome. Tree climbing near the cattle grid gave a short respite, but after battling along the road to Hemsworthy Gate and on to Bonehill, nobody was in the mood for the planned track detour. We headed straight for the Green Cafe at Widecombe where we luxuriated in the warmth and enjoyed hot food for well over 40 minutes.

The return journey was much easier, firstly because it was along the sheltered valley to Ponsworthy and secondly because the wind was now behind us. We could now really appreciate the glorious sunshine. The descent through Leusdon provided plenty of excitement, then there was time to ride along Spitchwick Common before we had to undertake the final climb to Hembury. The descent of Hembury Woods last week had provided so much entertainment that everyone just had to do it again this week. Today, however, Jake's rear derailleur fell apart on the descent with the loss of a jockey wheel. One look at the leafy woodland floor was enough to give up any hope of finding it, so he reluctantly pushed home, keeping up with the cyclists rather well on this occasion!