With several people suffering from flu, the few hardy members who were able to come to this evening's social enjoyed the usual mix of computer games - with surprisingly little competition for the available equipment.

Michael and several other members were recovering from flu today, so Tao led the group on a tough but enjoyable ride to Spitchwick, returning via Buckland and Ashburton.

Bowling this evening was at AMF Bowl, Torquay. There was time for three games in the darkened alleys, highest score of 115 going to Gavin (as usual).

Jason’s sore throat left him feeling somewhat weak after the first small climb, so he decided to go home while the rest of us continued up the many climbs to Shipley Bridge and the delightful walk to the reservoir. A chilly breeze took the shine off the views across the choppy waters so we took shelter behind a gorse bush during the consumption of refreshments.

The whole experience of cycling the Abbots Way moorland track was completely new to Ashley, who thoroughly enjoyed the brisk descent to Chalk Ford without incident. This really was a perfect day for this excellent ride.

This social was cancelled.

This week it had been Will's turn to get the dreaded flu, but he still made a tremendous effort and turnout out for this morning's ride on a day that threatened rain. We actually made it half way along Colston road before we really noticed any drizzle, but it was a little heavier at the top of Dartington hill and several of the younger riders had no gloves. A change of destination from Totnes to Dartington solved the problem and we were soon in Cranks vegetarian restaurant enjoying their excellent range of drinks and cakes. James and Ashley were unable to contain their hostile feelings about a meat-free menu, however.

We spent a few minutes observing the usual high prices of china in the Cider Press Centre shop, then headed back up the hill towards Rattery as the rain gradually fizzled out. The final leg of the journey past Pennywell Farm was pleasant, although the cold air ensured that Will descended very slowly to avoid frostbite!

We all enjoyed playing a new GameCube game, Super Smash Bros Melee, for most of the evening.

The weather was not at all promising when we met at the start, but our five youngsters impressed us by insisting on a ride regardless of the rain! We took the old road to Ashburton and climbed Chuley hill, but a few minutes later there was a delay while we fetched Jason back from a wrong turn and fixed Louis' rear brake. It's just as well that this was the moment for a dry spell!

We had to include a muddy track to keep James happy, then we headed towards Landscove and home before rain and cold feet dampened the enthusiasm. As usual, the afternoon was while away happily with a games social at Crofters.

Some of our younger riders don't seem to have realised that they can attend club socials on Fridays. Those who attended this evening enjoyed some quiet, uninterrupted time on the networked PC games.

New rider Tim used the long climb from Dean to Skerraton Farm to demonstrate that he is every bit as athletic as his brother Jamie. The stony track up to the moor was especially appreciated by James, who undoubtedly follows his older brother's preferences for off-road riding. It also gave Joe an opportunity to tell us of his scuba diving exploits - the explanation for his absence for the past few months. Once we were though the gateway to the open moor there was a short refreshment stop in the morning sunshine, then a final climb past the cattle to the high ridge - exposed to string winds and panoramic views.

The downhill to Cross Furzes took us past a group of long-haired and colourful Dartmoor ponies chasing about in their paddock. James just had to ride the ford of course, but he claims he didn't get wet feet. The final downhill brought us back just in time for Jake to make his family lunch appointment at 1pm. The rest of the group enjoyed an afternoon social at Crofters.

All our younger riders are progressing well through the training scheme and will soon be ready for harder rides. We plan to offer some Saturday rides on an occasional basis for those working towards Stage 3 - watch the web site for announcements.