After a drive to Vue Plymouth, we settled in for Hellboy II: The Golden Army, a thoroughly entertaining fantasy-action sequel rich in imaginative creatures, dry humour and lavish spectacle; far less sinister than the title suggests and a bright finish to a low-key social evening.

With the weather dampening spirits, Michael coaxed Ashley and Zac into a brisk, short outing, grinding up the long hill towards Cross Furzes. A reluctant start turned into a punchy climb that lifted the mood.

An easy evening at Tenpin in Plymouth: a game of ten-pin bowling followed by a few games of pool, low-key and good-natured throughout.

A short ride turned memorable: a climb to the coast path for sweeping views over the Salcombe estuary, then an impromptu boat trip in warm sunshine—choppy enough for Ashley to aim for the waves and leave us thoroughly soaked.

A low-key social: the youngsters picked The Island, a sleek sci‑fi thriller about clones who uncover the lie of their world and break for freedom; it held them rapt and kept them happy.

We welcomed Ryan back for a ride to Holne where the youngsters ignored Michael’s advice and took the steep climb past Ryan’s house, swiftly learning why we usually go via Michelcombe. A new rope swing provided drama, and Zac capped it with his first run down the Hembury Woods slalom.

An easy-going evening trip to Plymouth for several games of pool at Tenpin, Barbican Leisure, was very enjoyable, ending with a stop at Tesco for snacks on the way home.

A straightforward, enjoyable games evening spent exploring adventure titles on the Xbox 360.

A brisk AGM confirmed Michael as section secretary before a lively music quiz of film, TV and chart themes that he hosted; Zac pushed hard, but once the scores were added up Ashley was the winner again.

Aiming for some off-road to Landscove, we found the tracks muddier than hoped and the mood subdued after a minor finger injury from an unnecessary gate stop. A frosty silence from walkers sealed it; we turned back to Buckfastleigh via Caddaford rather than press on.

After months of waiting we finally made the swimming trip to the Torquay leisure centre, and it was all about uncomplicated fun: an hour of flumes and the wave machine keeping everyone happily occupied.

A straightforward evening social playing badminton in the sports hall at Ashmoor Leisure Centre, low‑key and sociable.