Fine spring sunshine greeted us for our first car-assisted day ride for 2007. Some last-minute bookings brought the total number of participants to nine, but with some careful packing we managed to fit all the bikes and all the riders into the two Volvo estates provided by Michael and Charles. The outward journey was made less cramped, however, when Alex's Dad kindly offered to take some riders.

We reached Steps Bridge car park at 11.15 to find no spaces whatsoever, but two people left while we unloaded the bikes. The youngsters noticed the youth hostel sign, pointing to the wooden chalet up in the woods that was once Steps Bridge youth hostel. We have made many visits there in the past, but sadly the hostel was closed by YHA last year.

Our ride began with the bridleway along the east bank of the river Teign through Cod Wood. Daffodils were growing everywhere, and the twists and turns of the path provided plenty of fun. There was then a short stretch of road to Clifford Bridge, where the first enormous red ants were noticed with some horror.

After a short chocolate break we continued along the opposite bank of the Teign along the track through Hitchcombe, Butterdon and Hore woods. Jordan and Dennis quickly found a red ants nest, and later kept the group waiting while they organised a game of "Manhunt" in the woods - otherwise known as Hide and Seek!

Fingle Bridge was reasonably busy. Zac seemed keen to abandon his packed lunch in favour of a visit to the attractive-looking restaurant by the river, but Michael encouraged everyone to press on with the steep climb to the Hunter's Path. The views were excellent during the climb, and even better when we reached the top, but the wind was significant as we settled down for lunch overlooking the steeply wooded Teign valley.

We followed the path to a viewpoint and then down past Castle Drogo. From the road we then joined the Fisherman's Path that leads back to Fingle Bridge beside the river. This was altogether more challenging, with more twists and climbs than the former.

For some of the youngsters one of the best features of the ride was the opportunity to meet so many dogs along the route. It seemed that every five minutes some new exciting breed would come along and get loads of attention from everyone, particularly Dennis! As we approached an incredibly steep flight of steps we were greeted by the best dog of the day, picking its way very carefully down the steps towards us. It got a very warm welcome when it reached the bottom!

Finally back at Fingle Bridge again we called in to the restaurant to enjoy drinks and light refreshments beside the river. Michael was somewhat surprised, therefore, when everyone flocked to his chocolate shop as soon as we left! Evidently toasted teacakes just don't hit the spot like chocolate!

To conclude a highly enjoyable ride we retraced our route back through the two woodland tracks to the cars.