And so to the Anniversary Ride – the climax of the month’s events. Fourteen riders gathered at Chudleigh Bridge in beautiful weather, including the famous “Mr Biggins”, known by many of the Dartmoor contingent for his artistic leanings rather than his enthusiasm for cycling. I hate to think what it must be like trying to teach our lot at school!

Our progress during the morning was hampered somewhat by the inevitable punctures which arise when such a large group are riding together, and the equally inevitable delays caused when the more mature members are within the ranks. Eventually however we arrived at Haldon and were surprised to find that hordes of Exeter cyclists had also gathered there. I personally couldn’t see whatever it was they had all flocked there to see – perhaps they had come to investigate the influence of tourism on the wild ant population of Haldon Forest!

Words cannot express the sudden feeling of greatness which descends on one when riding with about fifty other cyclists, knowing that they are all part of the same fantastic club. Colin led us on a devious route through the lanes in the general direction of Kenton and we arrived just in time to catch the caterers unawares. There was consequently plenty of time to relax on the lawn in the sun, and numerous silly games were played both before and after the magnificent tea.

Whilst the whole day went very well I still got the impression that there was a barrier of shyness splitting the club into its respective Sections. This, I hope, will be overcome during the coming months, but it will not be done by contenting ourselves with mixing with our own members; everyone needs to make an effort to chat with the members they don’t yet know. Only then will the security of your Section be backed up by the strength of the DA.

(Michael Jones)

[1 point: Philip Wrigley I think]
[3 points: Maurice Croney]
[4 points: everyone else]