Many of our members have been fortunate enough to have received new bicycles this Christmas, one such being Chris Giles from Buckfastleigh who was keen to attend his first ride this afternoon on his new machine. We should also say how pleased we were to see Nathan Arecco and Chris Bailey after such a long break.

Skerraton Down resides high up on the South moor, about 300m above the Buckfastleigh start in fact. The younger riders got a little worried as the hill past Nurston went on and on, then Ian got worried as the lane turned into a rough track. The pleasure really began when we reached the top, however, with spectacular views all around and long descents which brought us eventually to the ford near Cross Furzes. One or two fell off along the way, but the soft moorland vegetation ensured that no damage was done to bikes or riders.

When the usual ritual of water fights had been completed, members endured a chilly descent to Crofters for a welcome fire and hot drinks.