On departure from the Totnes pick-up, Michael (and a few others) thought it might be a good idea to introduce the group to the scenic Sharpham Drive detour to Ashprington. This delightful track runs alongside the river Dart, passing through fields and woods along the way. On this particular occasion all the gates were padlocked and there was even an electric fence to add to the adventure! No-one could have failed to enjoy the ride however.

We arrived at Harbertonford about an hour later than planned and set off along the quiet lanes to Moreleigh, Woodleigh (via a new stretch of lane) and Sorley. The final section of main-road work was punctuated only with a chocolate stop at Malborough.

Salcombe estuary looked superb in the evening sunshine. All of our previous visits to Salcombe had been during the winter months, so the hostel looked and felt much warmer than we had expected. As usual we were assigned the attic dormitory - a secure location well away from the warden's quarters!

When suppers had been consumed there was just time for a walk along the coastal path above the hostel, which led us eventually to Starehole Bay and its associated beach.

Next morning we were to rendezvous with the day-riders at Torcross cafe, so we were obliged to take the ferry to East Portlemouth (in the usual three consignments) where we enjoyed morning coffee outside in the chill wind. The maize of lanes near South Pool inspired a massive bike swap, but eventually we arrived at Torcross at the same time as Richard and Mark (the day-riders).

There were, of course, the usual silly games on Slapton Sands after lunch, Chris being the one who suffered most from the huge waves that pounded the beach. The return journey was along the usual route through Strete, the only significant event being Warren's collision with a car at the top of the Slapton track. Fortunately he was unhurt, but it provided an opportunity for Michael to remind everyone of the importance of good road-safety.