With the prospect of a depressingly wet day ahead of them the group of four left Buckfastleigh for Bovey Tracey. At Bovey Jenny and Nick arrived from Torbay and, surprisingly, Michael, but in the comfort of his car. However, he had a suitable excuse - an injured knee.

During the pleasant journey up the Teign Valley the clouds began to lift as we then climbed up Longdown and descended to Exeter. A short stop was in order, but Andrew and Jeremy found the shop they visited on last year's 130km ride was closed.

The next few miles were welcomely devoid of much gradient until the group found themselves in Thorverton with a choice of turnings. The right decision was made and lunch was consumed halfway between Thorverton and Crediton with Michael in attendance.

There was another stop at Crediton, where Jeremy found that the puncture discovered after lunch was not going to go away. It was decided that Jeremy and Nick should continue to Whiddon Down whilst the others would remain with Jeremy. Eventually a large enough puddle was found and the puncture banished, and the group set off up the hill to Whiddon Down. With a headwind the going was tough, especially for Simon who had foolishly ventured out on his fixed wheel.

Once at Whiddon Down it was mostly downhill to Moretonhampstead, but alas Simon and Jeremy managed to get themselves left behind. They suffered from the horrible combination of "knock" and mechanical trouble, before arriving in Moretonhampstead to find the others feasting in the cafe. After everyone had bought enough calories (joules) to pedal to Australia the road to Bovey beckoned, where the group split up.

Congratulations to Ian Luke, Andrew Simmons, Jeremy Weston, Jenny Quick, Nick Buchanan and Simon Hopper, who all successfully completed the ride. Certificates will be awarded at the Christmas Lunch.