An excellent turnout in Paignton for a hands-on evening of map skills—symbols, six-figure grid references and measuring distances. It all culminated in a 20-question Torbay OS map quiz that made everyone use what they’d just learned.

After a muddled start — Ian left waiting and Philip heading off on time — both groups converged at Totnes to be photographed by the Herald Express before tackling the long climb to Ashprington. Sharpham Drive gave a lively return, with unruly dogs and a puncture for Michael Banks adding drama.

Bright autumn sun made a superb moorland outing, with a split between cafe-seekers and those pushing on to explore Grimspound and the rewarding descent off Hamel Down. Laughter at Ken’s Spiderman lunch box gave way to a quiet pause at the RAF memorial, poppies set out for Remembrance Day.

The cycle workshop at Crofters focused on essential safety checks—brakes, cables, tyres and lights, with saddles and chains also covered—so no one leaves with a dangerous bike. A new rider, Chris Giles, joined the session over refreshments.

In bitter cold the ride was curtailed at Chudleigh Knighton, with a diversion to the Haytor tramway and quarry that offered little shelter from an easterly wind. En route the group found a horse fallen by a roadside trench, and atop Haytor Rock Mark Moxham managed a brief dance in the gale.

A bracing run to the old Avon railway took us down a leaf-strewn track into Silveridge Wood and lunch by the river, then on to an irresistible explore along the disused line. Spirits stayed high despite Ian’s early tumble and an electric fence that bit back.

A lively Give us a Clue evening at Richard Burge’s home near Ashburton, with Richard keeping everyone entertained and the chinchillas making their customary mid‑evening appearance. Newcomer Rebecca Burge joined the fun.

After a morning of heavy rain, Dave Humphreys was about to give up the Marldon start for a cup of tea when two determined riders appeared. They rode to Haccombe via the long Twickenham Road climb and a sweeping descent with views of Teignmouth, lingering at the tiny chapel before a chilly, slightly muddled return.

A run to secluded Gara Mill dropped us into the woods for a riverside lunch and Newsletter 7, then up again for coastal views to Blackpool. The café’s new owners left us eating outside—but in welcome sun. Proof that a local day out can rival a tour.

At a friendly quiz at the Humphreys’ home in Paignton, members brushed up on Cycling Proficiency basics. A few lessons seemed to stick, but leaders will be watching on rides to see what really went in; refreshments kept it sociable.

The club’s Christmas Lunch at Leusdon Lodge was bookended by a bitter crosswind ride, climaxing with a gale‑blown traverse of Dr Blackall’s Drive that made Dartmoor wild and exhilarating. With Luke Rake a no‑show, his pre‑ordered feast was shared, Catherine finishing the pudding.