Sam and Ollie decided to join us as well today because Heidi was unwell. Ryan met Michael and Ash at Crofters and they rode down to the start together to meet Sam and Ollie. Ash did really well on the ride to Ilsington despite his sore knee and we arrived at the hotel for the Christmas lunch at around 1205, which was a good deal earlier than we had expected.

Everyone had a good time swimming and using the other pool facilities, then we settled down in the restaurant for our meal at 1.20. The meal was excellent - Ashley had the courgette soup, roast turkey and chocolate mousse desert.

We managed to leave the hotel at around 1435, and whilst Ashley and the others were pressing to go back the easier way via Bickington they were fine once we reached Halshanger Cross. We all enjoyed the ride home via Ashburton and the short social at Crofters.