The ride on the 8th was well attended, with some members, including some of the Exeter Section, coming from Maypool after an overnight stay at the hostel. After coffee in Bovey Tracey we made our way out of the town and found a pleasant lunch spot on the banks of the River Bovey for lunch. Poor Michael – all he wanted was a peaceful rest, but with us around he stood no chance. The fallen autumn leaves provided a great source of entertainment, and so, it seems, did Michael’s bananas, which both landed in the river!

The climb which began after dinner continued to Slade Cross and then onwards and upwards to Pool Mill Cross. We were, however, surprised and grateful to find an ice-cream van at the summit. A scenic route past Hennock Reservoirs and Blackingstone Rock brought us on to the road to Moretonhampstead, where the Exeter members left us. We dropped down into the town and took the main road back to Bovey Tracey and on towards home.

(Frances Lofty)