The steep hill to Rattery did little to dampen the enthusiasm of young Julian Juste from Scoriton, who had joined us for his first club ride. We decided to take the little country lane between Culverlane and Shorter Cross, only to discover that the farmer had brutally felled every single tree and bush that had previously made our rides such a delight. Michael was not at all pleased.

The lane from Diptford to North Huish was, by way of compensation, particularly attractive, passing as it did over the river Avon. The little bridge, which didn't appear to be very substantial, was probably being held together by the many flowers that adorned it!

Return was via Avonwick and South Brent, which of course gave us the excuse we needed for a tea stop at the Copper Kettle, prolonged somewhat by Warren's blow-out.