We set out for an adventurous winter spin to Tuckenhay, sunlit but cold, stretching into extra miles that tested the younger riders before hot drinks revived us at Buckfastleigh. Michael’s £1-a-slice pizza backfired, and a tempting ford was declined after warnings about the chill.

A relaxed games evening built around previewing the first six days of Tao’s 2003 Norway tour video edit, punctuated by spirited Need for Speed Underground contests and an unhurried chat.

Matthew Hamlyn-White’s surprise return after twelve years set the tone for a steady run through Buckfast and Hembury Woods to Spitchwick, riders treading lightly on damp grass. Hopes of tackling Dr Blackall’s Drive gave way to a Buckland return, testing the youngsters before the long descent to Ashburton.

After overnight rain the youngsters wanted a track, so we chose Beaston, where deep pools and mud set the tone. Will misjudged a bog and was left stranded, feet on the bank, hands on the bike; we added the steep woodland return and all agreed it was the best ride for ages.

On a perfect winter morning we swept to Totnes for a quiet cafe stop, David adding poise by reading the paper. The return brought the day’s twist: Puncture Alley lived up to its name after warnings were ignored, but in the sun the wait felt easy.

A relaxed games evening on the PC network and our consoles brought steady, friendly competition with no drama—simple, sociable fun.

An ambitious bid for Slapton Sands was cut short when the forecast rain arrived near Moreleigh, and Michael wisely decided to turn back. As the heavens opened, the youngsters' showerproofs were overwhelmed while Tao showed off his new Gore-Tex, and all were relieved to reach Buckfastleigh.

A low-key games evening centred on networked Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 challenges, with friendly head‑to‑head skirmishes setting the tone.

A sunny morning ride turned playful when a terrier at Holne play park kept stealing the Aerobie, leaving riders breathless from the chase. Later, a flooded road near Buckfastleigh provided a soaking ambush for Michael.

A low-key games evening centred on tech: Tao spent the evening upgrading his PC while Will enjoyed his favourite game. A simple, satisfying mix of tinkering and play.

A bitter headwind over the moor made the haul to Widecombe hard work, so the Green Cafe’s warmth and hot food were a welcome pause. With wind now behind us the return sparkled—until Jake’s rear derailleur shed a jockey wheel on Hembury Woods, forcing a push home.

With only Michael and Gavin out, the day turned into a car-assisted ride to Hope Cove. The hazy detail (perhaps leaving the car near Loddiswell) sums up its improvised feel, but the point was simply getting there together.