An enjoyable games evening that really came alive in the second half as we began trialling a new network game, giving the night its defining spark.

A chilly but lively exploration of Hembury Woods, with plans pared back for an injured rider and the main hill taken to the fort. Memorable moments included a blocked steep descent and a nervous cry of 'I don't want to die yet' on the rocky drop to the river.

Badminton was shelved in favour of a computer games evening, rounded off with a short but decidedly noisy music quiz. The movie themes round was the highlight, drawing a flurry of correct answers from our knowledgeable members.

Perfect spring weather sped us to Avon Dam for wildlife, mirror-still water and wide views, capped by a flowing descent. Zac’s ill-judged bike tweak snapped a valve, sending him back to the car park for a lift, and later everyone climbed the old tree by the ford.

The evening centred on PC network gaming, but a late burst of enthusiasm took the group out for a swift visit to Tesco in the final hour.

A spring ride mixed trails with playful pauses: a long rope swing, Frisbee and rocket games by the river, and chocolate. Callum was coaxed up the climb by a waved water bottle, and the fast woodland descent to Lower Combe rounded off the morning.

With a cinema outing ruled out as some couldn’t stay past the usual 10pm, the final social became a repeat of the previous week: computer games followed by a supermarket trip — a simple, relaxed close to the season.

A sunny spin to Spitchwick mixed tough climbs with a lazy riverside interlude of Frisbee, rocks and chocolate. The day’s flavour: Jack’s spirited chase after a mischievous splash, and the group puzzling over the “My Dear” inscription on Buckland’s clock before a fast run home.

Newcomer Arthur joined us for the first evening ride of the season, a fast loop to Ashburton and on to Belford Mill. The homeward leg along the old Ashburton road was in total darkness—thrilling proof of evening rides' appeal—after a devious detour round Druid; lights for all next week.

With showers forecast we took a cautious line to Staverton, but were rewarded by spring sunshine. The highlight was Callum O'Brien riding every hill, plus riverside park games and a lively farm-track descent via Fursdon.

A perfect evening dash to Chalk Ford, with a fast climb and a superb sunset before sweeping over the moor. Arthur unveiled his new bright yellow bike, and we rode back after dusk on taped-on lights, rounding off with a relaxed games social.

A sunny spin to Venford Reservoir, taking the inner path for views of the brim-full water and skylarks among unusually friendly walkers. The highlight was a first run down Hembury’s downhill slalom; comic moments included being overtaken by a horse and an ill-judged electric fence test.