From the Bickington pickup we rode via Haytor Vale to Manaton and settled down for lunch in a sheltered field. Paul wasn’t impressed with the numerous cow pats, however, and was pleased to get back to the bikes.

When we arrive at the track that leads to Hameldown Beacon there was some dissent in the ranks: apparently everyone thought it would be muddy on top of the hill, so we had to skip the track and take the tarmac lane to Widecombe. Having negotiated the French tourists who had invaded the village we enjoyed refreshments at the Wayside cafe and then set about finding a circuitous route home to fill in the time left by missing Hameldown.

Michael quickly found the answer with a climb up Southcombe Hill and a rough footpath beside the river to Ponsworthy. The path included a few stiles and rocks but otherwise made a delightful excursion. It was thirsty work, however, and Michael was forced to break all his rules by drinking some of the stream water at Ponsworthy.

We returned via Leusdon, Spitchwick and Hembury. The more observant members noticed a heron wading in the marshes near Spitchwick, and a wild rabbit a little further along the lane.

As we approached Gallant Le Bower, Eliot, Paul and Tao made Michael promise to return on Friday for the track descent to Holne Bridge, and Tao arranged to ride out specially from Newton Abbot and stay the night with Eliot.