Although there was still snow on the ground the council crews had done a good job and the roads were ice-free. Martin and Dayle joined Richard at the start and after picking up Richard B at Alston Cross we found Luke waiting for us at Chudleigh Bridge with new rider Seb. Luke demonstrated his understanding of the word cool by wearing shorts and cycling mitts.

Once we left the road at Steps Bridge the snow on the path became both a visual delight and a challenge to staying upright. The forestry track from Clifford Bridge presented new problems: the deep puddles had thick ice on them, but was it enough to take our weight? Most of the time, yes. Enjoyably Fingle Bridge had only a handful of motorised visitors, and here Dayle found that the Ribena in his water bottle was undrinkable - it had frozen.

Hunters' Path was the usual strenuous struggle to the top, but we were rewarded by excellent views of Castle Drogo in the snowy landscape. Tea at Moretonhampstead allowed the thawing of extremities and fortified us for the return home.

Members may be interested to know that a pot of tea at the Primrose café is now £1 per person!