Michael’s mid-ride suggestion and a late start reshaped the plan into a relaxed run to Ermington, with photos on the bridge before a brisk return via Ivybridge. Jude’s carrot cake and the courtyard gates being locked over coffee gave the day its quiet, quirky charm.

Tom joined at George’s invitation to cover for Jude; with the court unavailable until 8.30 we filled the wait with PS4 Disc Jam, then headed to Ashmoor for a lively run of challenging badminton games.

With George absent and his off‑road‑averse father along, the off‑road plan was dropped and the day became an improvised Dartmoor ride to Widecombe. Midway, Jude quietly rode home, and a near‑empty Wayside Café lunch set a subdued tone before a steady return.

An evening of lively badminton saw first-timers Will and Harry shine, showing deft control throughout. With everyone taking at least one game, the mood shifted to friendly rivalry and the promise of sterner contests next time.

A short morning ride to Dartington was defined by a first visit to Baynard's Kitchen, the new replacement for Cranks: prices steep, a narrower menu and meat now on offer. After a delayed, lukewarm soup was put right, we headed back via Staverton, catching a steam train pulling out.

A gentle club evening that came alive: a family bonfire and fireworks set a warm start, then we headed to Ashmoor to meet the others for more demanding badminton. The shift from flames to fast rallies gave the night its character.

A crisp autumn spin to Holne, arriving at the café with a passing shower, was warmed by seasonal pumpkin soup before a chilly run back through Holne Woods to the Dart; beautiful, if muted, with most leaves already down.

Our Bonfire Night social began with Pizza Hut at the Barbican, then turned into an unintended extra mile when the swing bridge was closed, forcing a detour round Sutton Harbour. The fireworks on The Hoe—belatedly at 8.05—made the long walk worthwhile.

A relaxed badminton evening shaped by teamwork: with Will and Harry short of transport, Michael collected them and Jude’s mum took them home, and once on court everyone played everyone, giving a lively variety of games.

A breezy spin to South Brent turned lively when a sudden squall struck as we stopped to admire the view above Bloody Pool, hustling us down to Gidley Bridge. We then paused to puzzle over the curious stonework that splits the Harbourne before gliding back through quiet autumn lanes.

With Jude and Will absent, Gavin stepped in to make up the numbers and showed he hadn’t lost his touch despite months away, giving the evening its spark.

With a longer ride in mind, we returned to the Hennock reservoirs, climbing via Furzeleigh Lane for sweeping views and autumn colour, then circling a half‑filled Tottiford on rooty tracks. A morale‑boosting stop at the Devon Guild café bookended a brisk return.