Full turnout for badminton saw eight players rotating through seven planned games, but time beat us after five—some squeezed in a sixth. The clear highlight was Jude Norris, unbeaten in every match and taking the win.

Rain on the climb from Michelcombe put paid to Venford and Dartmeet, sending us to the quiet Holne café for snacks, drinks and intelligent conversation as the downpour set in. After nearly two hours we braved it—and were rewarded with a dry spell through Hembury Woods on the way home.

With Jude stuck in Ilsington, only three made it to Ashmoor for badminton; Michael played left-handed as his elbow healed, and Dillan won two of his three games to finish top.

With rain blowing in at Paignton, the ride became a drive to the Edgemoor Hotel, where a private room and an excellent Christmas lunch turned the day into a relaxed social. Coffee-fuelled chat of a summer tour to Switzerland and a marathon game of Risk rounded it off.

With only Michael and Dillan available, the planned car-assisted day ride to the Exeter Ship Canal was cancelled.

Curiosity finally drew us into the South Devon Chilli Farm, where chilli crept from cakes to mocha and a tasting bar ranged from mild to explosive. A joyful detour down the Avon river path revived old Section spirit; later, Dillan’s spill near Diptford brought prompt kindness from passing drivers.

A brief report: Dillan led the evening with three wins, with Jude runner-up on two; little else was recorded.

A strong turnout made for five excellent rounds; Dillan topped the night with five wins, with Jude on four and Will on three.

A chilly but cheerful spin from Starcross to Exeter Quayside offered fine estuary views, though the towpath was too crowded so we stayed on the cycle route, joining the canal later. Highlights were apricot flapjack at the Welcome Café and a superb veggie pizza with a 41% discount.

A light-hearted badminton session saw Dillan Edwards dominate, taking three wins from four against Will Bastow, while Michael Jones, using only his left arm, still managed to claim one game.

A cold-day snow hunt from Crofters led to the Holne café being closed for redecorating, so we made do with chilli crackers and caramel shortbread. The climb to Venford Reservoir was rewarded with lying snow, 45 minutes of snowballs and a snowman, before a chilly but happy ride home.

With five an awkward number, Michael largely stood back while the others ran a four-player contest: Dillan first, then Mark, Jude and George. They closed with a doubles match, Ilsington prevailing over Buckfastleigh.