We were pleased to welcome Freddie's mother and sister on this morning's ride which took us along Colston Road and the cycle path into Totnes. We did check out one of the lower cafes in the town, but the Barrelhouse definitely attracted the most votes. And so it was that we spent an enjoyable half hour eating teacakes and wholesome meals.

We headed back through Littlehempston, pausing on the railway bridge to chat with another cyclist. A profusion of snowdrops adorned the lanes as we rode through Staverton to Buckfastleigh.

On a wonderfully warm sunny morning we set off through Dean Prior and Harbourneford, stopping at the play park in South Brent for a swing break. A short ride then took us through Avonwick and up the lane to the quiet village of North Huish. After soaking up the tranquillity for a few moments we rounded the corner and then had to wait five minutes while Dennis made friends with a flock of free-range chickens! He would have taken one home with him if he could.

Descending the steep hill towards Diptford we just had to stop at the little bridge over the river Avon: the effect of the bright sunshine on the rippling water was simply stunning. We then returned through Diptford.

At Rattery Michael got very excited when he saw a sign for a poultry show. He had seen one there in the village hall several years ago and had been looking out for it ever since. So everyone had to troop into the hall, but in fact it turned out to be really interesting. There was a constant background noise of cackling, quacking and crowing as we wandered through the aisles of cages. Almost every breed and colour of bird was represented, and Dennis took great pleasure in selecting his favourites. Charles and Heidi seemed more interested in the egg table which had prizes for various eggs, whole and opened.