All our regular riders were out today except Callum F who was in Gloucester. Lawrence got Michael to make him a toast and marmalade breakfast, then everyone took a look at Callum O’Brien’s new bike, which turned out to be exactly the same model and colour as Lawrence’s Trek.

Michael was around 80% fit now after his recent cough, so he was back to cycling today. Zac suggested Ashburton and everyone seemed happy with that so we followed our usual route along the old Ashburton road and then took the old railway track to the park where some played for a short time and others stayed outside in the hope that the rest would then finish quicker.

The woodland track back from Belford Mill was a bit muddy today. Halfway along the track we found a rope overhanging the river which provided much entertainment. Callum plucked up courage to have a go after watching the others and had no problems, but Lawrence needed some help to return to the bank when he took his turn.

Leaving the woods we noticed a pair of dirty shorts hanging from a bramble by the gate and wondered how they got there. We then returned past South Dartmoor School and along the old railway line, reaching Buckfastleigh by 12.55. Lawrence did will today, and Callum’s new bike made a huge difference to his performance.