Four of us set off from the start on this beautiful sunny morning, but we had only reached Furzeleigh Mill when we got a call from Alex's Mum saying he had gone to the clubroom for 10.15 instead of the ride start!

He caught us up in just a few minutes, and soon we were speeding along the A38 which offered the easiest and fastest route to our destination. A piece of barbed wire on the side of the road was hit by a few of the group but miraculously caused no punctures!

Stover Country Park appeared busy as we rode along the woodland paths. We didn't get to see the recently-added air walk, but stopped at the picnic tables beside the lake for some food and Frisbee fun.

Scott was suffering with a back pain, and a shower further dampened his spirits as we headed out along the track to Teigngrace. The younger riders felt proud to find themselves riding as far from home as Newton Abbot, but the climb towards Ipplepen proved too much for Scott on this occasion. We stopped at Fermoys for some excellent food and a well-earned rest, and then Scott's father collected him from the car park at 2.30.

The rest of the group pressed on through Ipplepen in bright sunshine, delayed only by some puddle splashing, led of course by Alex. We paused at Staverton Park for some serious Frisbee practice and then headed home via Caddaford. Congratulations to Ashley on successfully completing his longest and hardest ride to date.