At the AGM the focus was on rebuilding the Section’s membership, especially among juniors, through a revised training programme, new information packs, heavy advertising and later Sunday starts; changes begin 5 October, with new parental consent forms and a two-week rollout.

Our new season of 11am rides began with David Robinson’s welcome return, a gentle run to Dartington in autumn sun. A long queue at Cranks sent us to Muffins for drinks, and the Totnes cycle path charmed, with views of the Buckfastleigh–Totnes steam railway.

A cosy, informal evening of games and videos, with relaxed conversation over hot chocolate; simple and good‑humoured.

With Jamie keen to try his new bike, we stitched together every off-road stretch we could, taking in a fast drop to Hole Farm and the riverside at Staverton. Stone-skimming stalled progress and the cafe at Landscove was shut, but Michael’s mobile chocolate shop saved the day.

A packed evening cinema trip to Plymouth—so popular we needed two cars—saw us enjoy Finding Nemo, Pixar’s warm, funny tale of a clownfish’s ocean quest to rescue his son with the help of forgetful Dory; bright, inventive and entertaining from start to finish.

Numbers swelled with new and returning riders on a relaxed outing to Dartington. A steam train arrived at Staverton as we did, and a hedge softened a newcomer’s fall on a sharp corner.

A quiet evening of computer games delivered exactly what was needed: relaxed play and steady good humour. Nothing dramatic, just simple matches that kept everyone happy from start to finish.

A perfect autumn morning ride saw newer riders grow in confidence on the woodland track to the River Dart Country Park, edging towards their first certificates. Aerobie in the Holne play park set the mood, while one rider’s stream-soaked head soon felt the cold, before games at Crofters.

The new badminton season opened with a blend of coaching and play: Kane and Connor needed some very basic training, struggling to hit the shuttle let alone serve. Meanwhile the other four enjoyed lively games that kept the session upbeat.

The ride centred on reaching the much‑requested Fermoy’s Garden Centre via the flattest, most direct line, with new rider Ashley impressing on a lengthy first outing. Half‑price roasts revived the group before two under‑the‑weather youngsters struggled on the run‑in, yet everyone made it back in good time.

With flu thinning the ranks, this low-key games evening became a relaxed session of computer play, with those who made it enjoying easy access to the equipment and no queues.

With Michael and others recovering from flu, Tao led a tough but enjoyable ride to Spitchwick, looping back via Buckland and Ashburton. A small group, tested by the hills, still took satisfaction from the effort.