For once the Paignton turnout (10) exceeded the Buckfastleigh turnout, owing mainly to the Twyfam and Robfam being out in force.

Timing was immaculate as both groups merged at Fishacre Barton, some 1.5 miles from the final meeting place at Torbryan Church. Whilst Michael counted heads and gave out newsletters a certain pillar of society, who teaches for a living and has sons called Philip and Dominic, "scrumped" an apple from an overhanging tree. This, of course, prompted others to follow until the adults present, including the aforementioned individual, had to call a stop ("Do as I say - not as I do").

Owing to the large proportion of youngsters in the party it was decided to go directly to the Pick 'n' Park cafe, which was as excellent as ever. After our brief repast we went our separate ways at the Style Park Gardens turn-off.

The Paignton group stopped off at Dave Robinson's for yet more refreshments and a chat before setting off for their respective homes. Buckfastleigh riders had a more arduous return as a result of a decision to use the Beaston track: before they had reached the end of the track they had collected six fine punctures! Repairs took nearly an hour because the mountain bikers had only one half-decent pump between them.

It was nice to see Dominic Robinson and Paul Oakley on their first Sunday ride, and the return of Julie - out for the first time since the birth of James ten weeks ago.