Lawrence amused everyone by texting Michael from his bed before the ride to say he was too cold with just his arms outside the quilt, so he would be giving the ride a miss today. Well it really wasn't THAT cold, and once we started riding everyone was soon taking off fleeces and coats.

The youngsters all wanted a longer ride today despite the forecast of a risk of light rain later, so after viewing OS maps online at Crofters we settled on Fermoys as a suitably warm and welcoming destination. We rode up Caddaford hill and got as far as the other side of Staverton before the light rain began to appear. It was heavier by the time we reached Torbryan, but everyone voted to continue to the café regardless.

We spent an hour and a half at Fermoys from 12.50, first enjoying tasty lunches and then reviewing all the inhabitants of the pet store. All in all it was a very enjoyable stop.

On the way home Michael detoured the quarter of a mile into Denbury so members could see what the actual village looked like, then we continued on to Broadhempston, negotiated a heavier spell of rain along the way. George's rear wheel had been playing up on the ride, and now unfortunately the cause became apparent as his wheel bearing came apart. With the rain being heavier again John waited for Kelly to collect him and George while Michael led the others home along the usual route.