Our largest ride turnout since May included no beginners so we were able to tackle an ambitious morning ride to Haytor. Some of the youngsters didn't like the hill from Belford Mill near Ashburton up to Birchanger cross, but the autumnal appearance of the many woodlands along the route made the whole journey very enjoyable. We detoured through Haytor Vale on the way up the big rock and rested there for twenty minutes while buying refreshments and making friends with the local pony. Ben and Chris had never ridden this far into the moor, and the panoramic views to the sea emphasised the magnitude of their achievement.

A couple of showers and a stiff breeze left some with cold fingers by the time they reached Cold East Cross - no doubt warm gloves will feature on a few Christmas lists this year. The high speed descent to Ashburton made a memorable end to an excellent October ride.

Several Western Power Distribution vans were parked outside Crofters when we returned. Apparently a squirrel has short-circuited a three-phase overhead line in Michael's field while we had been out, causing a loud explosion and leaving half of Buckfastleigh without electricity. Sadly the squirrel will no longer be visiting Michael's bird table.