There was more good weather in the morning, but our route was not to be quite as scenic as that of the outward journey. We had an appointment with Plymouth Section members near Darite on the southern fringe of Bodmin Moor for lunch, so the morning was spent riding along mainish roads through Lostwithiel - and patching up poor Tao who got caught up with Matthew HW during an overtaking stint and then steered his brand new mountain bike right across the main road before abandoning it and landing on the tarmac. The explanation for this strange behaviour came when the bike was inspected afterwards: the handlebar stem locking bolt was loose, and the wheel had moved out of alignment by nearly 90° during the impact with Matthew! There was no serious harm done to either bike or rider, but the incident should serve as a reminder to all members not to trust a bike just because it is new: check it over yourself before you ride it.

We arrived first at the meeting place (to our surprise), and were half-way through our lunches when the Plymouth bunch arrived. Having nearly doubled our numbers we continued along an interesting wooded route back to Plymouth, pausing for more than half an hour by the river near Pillaton for watery games. Martin entertained us by waterlogging his wheel bearings while Marcus (from Plymouth) waded through the water in pursuit of some rather large balloons acquired by his friend Steven.

Kevin took full responsibility for leading us through Plymouth to the rail station in time for our 5.30 train. Things went fine until we had crossed the Tamar Bridge (quite an experience in itself). We then spent nearly an hour riding non-stop to the station, and nearly missed the train. Michael thought it shouldn't have taken anywhere near as long (he had banked on half an hour, which would have given him time to buy a pizza), so he checked the map when he got home, only to discover just what a long-winded, devious route Kevin had selected for us. Unbeknown to Michael, Kevin was also checking his map and coming to the same, guilty conclusion! We didn't complain, though, as we had all enjoyed a superb weekend break.

This was a grade 3 ride, which presumably went some way towards explaining the low turnout. We were joined unexpectedly by two Torbay Section members (Mark Moxham and Robert Spence) at the Avonwick pick-up, together with a load of novice cyclists from Plymouth riding for the Telethon event. Mark and Robert decided to stay with us until lunchtime, but we lost the Telethon riders after Ermington.

Mothecombe Beach had been hit with oil contamination from the recent shipping collision, but much had been cleared up by the pollution control experts when we arrived. All that remained was a heavy smell that surrounded the entire beach area and some oily marks on the rocks.

By way of variety we waded across the river Erme to Wonwell Beach after lunch, holding bikes high above our heads so that the salt water would not corrode them (the water only came up to our thighs). From this new position we were able to choose a completely new return route, using the tidal road at Aveton Gifford. There was even time to enjoy refreshments at the garden centre cafe near Loddiswell.

Warm sunshine welcomed us to what some members had called the "Ride of the Year". Just as we were ready to leave Totnes Luke Hatherly decided to announce that his tyre was flat. When this had been dealt with we climbed out of Totnes towards Harbertonford. It was here that Martin Luke caused a minor collision between two other members whilst escaping unhurt himself.

By now it was extremely hot, and drink was in short supply as we rolled into East Prawle. But here our eyes met a welcome sight: the local shop (called Piglet Stores I believe) was excellently stocked with chilled cans and cool, fresh milk.

After a brief stop we continued on to the cove, which was down a twisty road and then along a stony track. Dayle got over-enthusiastic and continued past the beginning of the track: having gone down a steep hill he was told by a motorist that his friends had turned right at the top!

The cove offered some amusement during lunch as we watched a speed boat pulling a ring with someone in it. Shortly after the boat had disappeared out of sight behind a ridge of rocks he reappeared - but without the person in the ring!

The return journey took us through Torcross, Strete and the Forces Cross cafe. Michael had to help the proprietor to work his computer as "payment" for the group enjoying refreshments on the lawn. Meanwhile Paul HW Enterprises was instructed not to sell on the premises - as if he would!

The return from here was through "Corky" and Tuckenhay, where Martin Luke was renamed "Lotto the Liability" by some. We finally arrived home at 9pm - extremely late, but by all accounts it was worth it.

Sunday's route was via Bideford and Torrington. The cyclepath was not completed beyond Bideford, but that didn't stop a few hardened members trying it out. The rest watched their progress from various vantage points along the easier road route. Tao performed very well in view of his illness: we tackled the remaining hills through Beaford and still reached Eggesford with half an hour to spare before the train was due.