When George pumped his tyre at the top of Silver Street the unfortunate result was a broken valve which necessitated a tube change, but we were soon on our way again. At Scoriton Leo the dog was relaxing in the shade while his friend the sheepdog kept bringing us a stick to throw for him.

We intended to complete the ride at a good pace so after riding through Michelcombe to Holne we continued straight on up the hill to Venford and Combestone Tor, pausing only so that Will could eat a Crème Egg by the reservoir. Huccaby Bridge looked delightful in the afternoon sunshine, but we continued at speed to Dartmeet where we arrived at the café at 12.35, just five minutes later than planned.

An enjoyable forty minutes was spent eating soups and pasties for lunch, then after admiring the peacocks we all climbed Dartmeet Hill in record time. Everyone was keen to ride Dr Blackall’s Drive so we tackled the stony track to Mel Tor and then relaxed on the stone for a few minutes lapping up the splendid view over the secluded Dart valley.

Will and George sped along the path, highlighting just how much they have come to enjoy off-road riding since their early days in the club. As usual we branched right onto the path down to New Bridge. John, who is still not a great fan of off-road, described it as “interesting”, and Michael managed to break a pedal on a protruding rock. It was all good fun though, and was undoubtedly the highlight of the ride.

From New Bridge we rode straight home via Hembury Woods, arriving back by 3.23. Today there was no social after the ride as Michael had to go out, but we are planning another longer ride next Sunday if the weather is suitable.