Drizzly mist shrouded Saddle and Rippon Tors until early afternoon, then lifted to reveal rare, superb views from Bel, Honeybag, Chinkwell and Mel. The day was marred when some older teenagers rode on open moorland against policy, plus a mix-up on Dr Blackall's Drive.

Eight set out from Marldon with Ken for a sociable evening spin, notable for welcoming new members Gareth Dart and Bob Minskip. A relaxed loop through the local lanes gave them a first taste of the club’s midweek rides.

Despite Michael’s warning to keep to a cautious loop via Landscove, the group pressed on to Spitchwick in heavy humidity. Swimmers were still in the water when thunder cracked; a fierce storm exploded overhead, spectacular forks of lightning chasing a drenched, shaken retreat home.

Steady rain forced us to abandon Ramshorn Down; discretion prevailed and we retired to Crofters, warming up with hot drinks while the men’s singles tennis final played out. A ride lost, but a companionable afternoon gained.

With Wimbledon, an early start and steady rain sapping enthusiasm, only the new tandem ventured out. A double puncture—Toby finally spotting the sliver of glass—made them late at Newton Abbot, and the moor plan was shelved for a swift, soggy return to Buckfastleigh.

A sunny evening brought a good turnout for the Marldon ride, with Ken leading an unhurried loop through South Devon’s quiet lanes. The easy pace and warm light made it a sociable ride, the appeal lying in the simple pleasure of exploring familiar roads together.

Those who braved the early drizzle were rewarded with a sunny evening spin via Pridhamsleigh, Landscove and Staverton, with a few tracks thrown in for Alan. After the first proved muddy and steep, his appetite for more off‑road faded, leaving the rest of us to savour the lanes.

Richard’s two-loop Treasure Hunt, split before and after lunch, worked well, with clever clues providing plenty of entertainment. Julie’s welcome drinks and cakes added to the day.

The evening ride set off in hopeful mood beneath cloud, but rain soon spread in and plans were abandoned shortly after the start, the group turning back early rather than push on into worsening weather.

A relaxed evening ride of exploration, linking some newish lanes around Rattery and Dartington, then a quiet return along the riverside Staverton track via Abham and Green Lane.

A classic summer moorland outing centred on Ugborough Beacon became a true traverse of the South Moor, threading the Redlake Tramway to Petre’s Cross. A steep bracken descent to the Avon and a welcome clapper bridge crossing set the tone, before meeting Ivybridge school riders on the Abbots Way.

The South Hams Audax proved an enjoyable 100km tour, the varied route taking in the Plym Valley cyclepath, and the easy company of riders from around the country giving the day its character.