A bad forecast coupled with prolonged periods of rain around the starting time put off all but the hardiest members. Those who did turn out looked around for a warm refreshment stop and spied the clean, modern frontage of the Dart Cafe. Appearances can be deceptive, however: several people were smoking, and the hot chocolate was weak and watery!

We spent half an hour in and around the cafe waiting to see what would happen. It didn't rain again, so we set off on a short excursion through the delightful riverside lanes of Tuckenhay and Dittisham. When it still hadn't rained by 2pm we decided to extend the ride somewhat with a crossing on the Dittisham to Greenway ferry. We had to ring the bell several times and wait about 20 minutes before the ferryman decided to come across for us: this was the last day of his season, and he didn't appear to be in too much of a rush.

Everyone enjoyed the ride back to Paignton and Totnes, particularly young Paul Twydell who was trying out his new Peugeot Trail 20 cycle.