The ride to Haytor through Ashburton, Halshanger and Birchanger was pleasant enough, but as we turned towards Cold East Cross a gale force headwind blew torrents of icy rain straight into our faces, giving us a really tough ride in the descending darkness. This stretch of road can be a nightmare if the weather is against you.

Everyone was relieved as we descended out of the wind towards Ashburton and home.