Five of us assembled at Ivybridge Railway Station car park on a cold windy day, Myself, Ted Greenberry, Andy P, Graham B,Dave Newman. 

With Ted revving up his new electric bike we set off turning into the lanes at Filham to get out of the biting wind and headed for Strode, from there we crossed the A3121 to head for Sheepham bridge & the long climb up to Mary Cross.At least we were out of the wind and the effort warmed us up. It was then through the lanes to the Thatches and the tight left hand bend at Heathfield Cross where Ted & I nearly got wiped out by a big Transit van. Tragedy avoided with the driver saying he would get us on the way back, we headed for Chillaton Cross.Turning right on the Averton Gifford road and down to Idston Cross and turning left on to a new lane we had`nt tried before, this brought us out just before the Loddiswell road were we turned right on to another new lane & down to Knapp Mill. Turning left on to now a familiar lane crossing over the river Avon at Hatch Bridge, the lane still had remnants of flooding even after a dry week. We joined the Kingsbridge B road turning left and headed for the Avon Mill Cafe & our first coffee stop.

​Here Ted decided to treat us all to coffee in celebration of the Corps ( Royal Marines ) birthday. they where formed on the 28th Oct 1664, so we all sang happy birthday to the Royal Marines.

Celebrations over we set off again on a familiar route to California Cross taking in Woodleigh, Preston, Gara Bridge  & in to the pub which was crowded with Sunday lunch time diners. We planned to sit outside but the wind was still biting so we found room in the little snug bar, this was before Ted decided to lecture two women smokers outside on the hazards of smoking. 
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Once we had our fill of tea, with me choosing a pint of Jail Ale,we set off back to Ivybridge. The main B3196 was particular busy, so we turned left at Venn Cross for the quieter lanes back to Ivybridge arriving back at the station with just 28 miles on the clock. A good dry day with a mixture of cloud & sun but a really cold wind.

​Trevor Bradshaw 

 There was six at Torpoint which was the start for the ride to Maker Camp via Seaton and the first tea stop of the day. I think that I might of found the odd new lane because David after passing through Narkus and then dropping down along a steep narrow grassy lane to Hessenford,though it was Seaton.
From Hessenford we rode down the valley to the beach cafe at Seaton then after our stop the coastal route back was taken, going to Whitsands Bay and Cawsand to Maker Camp where we sat outside in the now warm sunshine. After a enjoyable stop a round about route was taken to the ferry going via Millbrooke and St John. I went through the ford at St John and picked up some large cooking apples that were on offer with a sign "help yourself and make a pie" the others took the harder hilly route over the hill, which was one too many hills for Tim.

​35 miles covered on a cold to sunny day. Trevor Bradshaw Graham John David Newman John O' Rouke and Tim Blasdale a new member.

Graham Black

Five of us turned up at the start they included Trevor, John O',  Dave N, and Graham B. and my good self. Halfway down the road from the start we saw Graham J on his new electrified stead riding to the start. I initially thought he was riding to meet the B riders but I was wrong. We eventually met up again at Plymbridge  Woods and all was well. 
Onwards and Upwards, where I should have turned off for Bickleigh, Bickleigh soon became Clearbrook , my mistake, to busy yapping and not paying attention. By now we had lost Graham J. On reaching the A386 road for Tavi' we turned right  and the first left leading to Denham Bridge.
On reaching Denham it was granny gear plus as we fought our way up a very steep 20% hill. The next part of the journey led us to Gullworthy Cross and a fast descent into Gunislake where we crossed the bridge into 'Dreckly' country. Struggling up another steep one, we were within striking distance of our destination  Kit Hill.
We were now at Kit Hill and the café was soon to be in sight and so was Graham J as he trundled towards us, giving a wave as he passed us. The café was heaving with bikers all dressed in their leathers, with some classy vintage bikes in tow. After half an hour and replenished  it was back on the road now heading towards Tavistock and Morrissons for a well earned coffee and sticky bun. 
At Yelverton Graham and Trevor headed towards Cadover Bridge whist the rest of us headed back on the cycle track to Coypool. When approaching Plymbridge we were confronted  by an army of kids and parents who had just completed a sponsored walk.
At the Ridgeway we bade our farewells as we went our separate ways. A pleasant day with 54 miles to show for it and even more for Trevor who rode in from Ivybridge.

​Andy Prideaux

nWe assembled at the station car park a day late having cancelled the ride for Sunday due to horrible forecast of heavy rain and high winds. Well the weather man at the BBC got it wrong again, and Sunday turned out to be sunny with a bit of wind.
But He-Ho today was more sunny and no wind, so still a good move. There was the usual 4 of us, myself, Andy P, Graham B & Dave Newman, so with bright blue sky`s we set off towards Wrangaton. It was then skirting South Brent and on through Harbourneford,Buckfastleigh and into Ashburton, through the town heading north to Linhay Business Park & the cafe next to Bigpeaks cycle shop. We decided to have a look round the cycle shop and their vast array of electric bikes,definitely worth a visit for those contemplating the next move up from brute force of our basic bikes.The cafe next door was good as well and not to expensive, (Larry) also worth a visit.
It was then back down to the town taking the first left, the right & left again heading for Chuley Cross, but to get there we had a mammoth climb up a long hill. Turning left at the top we headed for Landscove and made a right turn to join the lanes heading for Staverton. We had a small break at Tidwell to admire the nice blooms of Cyclamen`s around the base of a chestnut tree with loads of conkers on the ground. Graham & Dave decided to grab some to take home in the hope that someone would challenge them to a game of conkers, (any offers) Andy decided it was a banana break and treated us to the sight of his new keep fresh banana box of bright yellow plastic, see some photos of his proud new purchase. We then carried on to Ben`s cafe for our second coffee & cakes.
The trip back was up to Rattery and then South Brent where we stopped to discover "The Island" which had featured on Radio Devon and Dave had heard of through a friend. I thought I new South Brent like the back of my hand , having done lots of work there when I was in business, but did`nt know it existed. They even have a South Brent Island Trust. So anyone interested in local history its worth a visit, it situated behind St Petroc`s Church.
After our burst of local history, it was back to the station car park after a very enjoyable ride and mostly bright blue sky`s. My speedo said 38.6 miles covered.

​Trevor Bradshaw

Dave Newman and myself met at Woolen Mill car park on a cool and windy day, Dave was still in shorts maybe it was because when I first stuck my head out of the door, first thing in the morning I told him it it was still mild!
We took a round about route to Liskeard via Hessenford, Widegates and then dropping down into the Looe valley. It was then a steep climb up a narrow lane to Liskeard and for me beans on toast and a doughnut for David at Morrisons. Today there was a AGM at 5.00, we planned route that would get us back to the car park giving enough time to have a change before the meeting.
Continuing on from Morrisons we headed up to Minions for the second tea stop, afterwards down hill narrow lanes because we would soon be back I was able to give my e-bike a work out and this also gave David some times behind me a burn trying to keep up with me!

​Graham Black

​I was met on the Ridgeway by Graham B and Nigel Mole just as we were about to leave when Graham R appeared, making a grand total of four. It was a lovely sunny morning just what was needed. I decided to aim for Tavi as our destination, rather than the usual Plym  Valley route.  It was decided Newnham/Leemoor would be more challenging. Once we had hit the summit it was onwards and upwards to Cadover  Bridge flying down the hill to Gratton and eventually arriving at Yelverton for our first stop of the day. I decided to try the new Deli' next to Vierra's just for a change, where the choice of food and drinks  were welcomed. After putting the world to right it was onwards again, saying  farewell to Graham R who had other commitments, this time heading towards Walkhampton. Having arrived at Walkhampton and heading towards Huckworthy Bridge we took a right turning leading to Eggworthy which was off the beaten track and mainly traffic free. Then it was downhill to Ward Bridge and a steep climb towards Samford Spinney, before long we were on Whichchurch common and Tavi was soon looming in the distance. It was now lunch time, so rather than the usual café stop we would try a new venue aptly named Church Lane, with a church opposite it, incidently  cyclists receive a discount. Having arrived there all the outdoor seating had been taken, so the leisure centre in the Meadows was our next port of call, unfortunately this too was closed owing to building work, so it was back to the original café again. This time we were lucky and found a table and there we had lunch basking in the sun. Homeward bound through the Meadows following the path behind Tavi Comp' we were soon at Crowndale road this leading eventually onto the Drakes Trail. Once off the trail I decided to take the hill up to Pound corner passing through Crapstone and heading towards Buckland Abbey. Taking a left turn this time aiming towards Roborough Down where we  crossed the  busy A386. Taking the road to Bickleigh and from there the Plym Valley Trail, dodging stray dogs and small kids on bikes we were soon at the end of the trail. From Coypool to the Ridgeway we bade our farewells, an enjoyable day with good company and weather to suit.

​Andy Prideaux

Four of us set off from the bridge, just after Dave arrived at 9am on the dot. Weather was dry so we all
had smiles on our faces. Dave & Nigel took up the lead & soon we were passing Tilland mill, & on up to
Doddycross. Then after Pengover Green we descended to be meet with a steep climb up to Liskeard, &
The Kind Doniert pub for elevenses.
Soon we were on our way to Morval & a bit of rough stuff, which Trevor was very much looking forward
to. So after a nice bit of following the railway from Liskeard to Looe, we turn left at Sandplace & headed
up to Morval estate & a lovely climb through the woods, on tracks which turned very stoney towards the
top. When we got to the top Trevor wanted more. Anyway I said I didn't know where the track was going so turned right and back on to tarmac.
Now on a lane we soon found ourselves coming out at No Mans Land. Then crossing the main road to
Looe, we headed along a lane to Seaton. After a nice long descent into Seaton, we now found ourselves
going along the coast & heading for the big climb out of Downderry. Trevor & I have granny gears so this
is no problem. After regrouping at the top it was straight on across cliff tops & with a few ups & downs
found ourselves in the Cliff Top Cafe, overlooking Whitsand bay. Soon we had consumed our coffees etc
& it was time to move on.
Now heading for Cawsand/Kingsand & our second bit of rough stuff. We soon found ourselves tackling
the coastal footpath & heading towards the lane to Picklecombe Point. Now on the lane we climbed in the
opposite direction & headed up to Maker Heights, & the main road to Cremyll Ferry. After another nice
long descent Dave said the ferry leaves at 3pm. So we found ourselves on the ferry & crossing to
Stonehouse, Plymouth. On arrival we saddled up & Nigel lead us on a scenic route towards Devonport.
Soon we were saying farewell to Trevor & Nigel. Then Dave & myself headed home across the Tamar
river & 51/52 miles on the clock.

Larry Clarke

Delayed by a day due to heavy rain 6 of us turned up for this weeks ride, Myself, Andy P, Graham B, Dave Newman, Nigel Mole & Andy Easton, with a much better day than yesterday we set off towards Wrangaton. The traffic was particularly heavy and with Nigel taking the P*** saying what we doing on the M5, I decide to turn off under the railway arches at Bittaford and take in the steep climb to give them something else to moan about. We carried on skirting South Brent and taking the Avon Dam/Shipley bridge road then onto Bloody Pool Cross, turning left and headed for Buckfastleigh and turning left just before at Coxhill Cross to start the long climb  to Cross Furzes before a decent to Combe. Andy E was suffering badly due to his long absence from cycling having to walk up most of the climbs, so gave him another nice chevron climb out of Combe towards Scorriton. I decided to avoid the next big chevron into Holne and took the long easy way round through Michelcombe, where we met a large group of ramblers to say good morning to. It was then on to the nice Community cafe in Holne for our first break. It was nice to see the Pub had reopened  again after a long closure, don`t know if that has been taken over by the local community, have to give it a try sometime to find out.
Fully refreshed after Tea,Coffee & cake, we set off again turning right in the village and headed for Ridley Cross, straight on for Shuttaford then another nice chevron for Andy up to Humphrey`s Cross. We turned right here and started the long decent through Hembury Woods passing the hilltop fort of Hembury Castle hidden in the woods. It was then a gentle ride on to Buckfast Abbey cafe and managed to find a table among the lunch time diner`s for our second stop.
After a nice leisurely break and putting the world to right with our reminiscing it was on the road again for the final leg back to Ivybridge, nothing to exciting just the well plodded route back to the station car park. It had been a funny day weather wise, one minute drizzle, then just dull followed by periods of sunshine, still we all enjoyed the ride, well except for Andy E, who thought he was going to die. Only a short ride of 31 miles but plenty of climbing.

Trevor Bradshaw

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​For the third time of asking - cancellations last week as well as 1st.July, 5 of us set off from the ' Subway`
car park for the much awaited ride to Crackington Haven on the North Cornish Coast. The weather was
not great but after last weeks horrendous forecast we decided to make the best of it. The back roads to
Altarnun were not too messy & we were soon hugging the N.E. edge of Bodmin moor, via W.Carne &
Bowithick up to the cattle-grid on Davidstow moor. The mist seemingly became much thicker with
visibility being poor enough to loose Graham as we turned right for Halworthy. We eventually managed
repatriation via a kindly motorist, but it did mean a route change past the huge creamery (now the 'home
of Cathedral City!) & along the A39. Owing to the weather conditions it mattered less & with a
substantial tailwind & rear lights, it was only a matter of minutes to the welcoming 'open` sign at the cafe
by the old Otterham Station. This particular caffeine break was particularly welcome & we spent a
pleasant 3/4 of an hour or so.
On returning to our bikes in, what seemed, poorer visibility we decided Not to shorten the route, so as
planned, we climbed up from Marshgate to the rather underwhelming name of High Cliffs, which are
incidentally the highest on the N. Cornish coast. We were now almost at the edge of the sea going along
the normally attractive lane where there is a small NT car park for the 'Strangles` Beach, thought by many
to be the best in Cornwall. (No parked cars today!) & then down the steep & twisty hill to Crackington
Haven. The visibility was no better at sea level, although there were still a few holidaymakers walking on
the beach or in the two cafes. One could barely see the precipitous cliffs which make this tiny harbour so
popular. So after eating lunch by the lifeguard station &, after slight deliberating, had another beverage on
the basis that there would be no other opportunity & it was our destination!
The climb from sea level up to Wainhouse Corner on the Atlantic Highway(A39) is quite severe (2
separate chevrons!) although the secondly was slightly more gentle. With visibility becoming
considerably clearer the descent to Carnworthy Water was extremely pleasant, with the road being
sufficiently wide to ride two abreast at times. John was anticipating some sort of lake in line with the
Lake District. Nomenclature e.g. Derwent, Coniston & Ullswater. Whereas it is merely the widening of
the River Ottery after receiving two tributary streams thereabouts. Apologies to Larry who said all along
it was the Ottery! The ride back to Plusha along fairly quite lanes was pleasant especially with the pretty
Gimgletts Mill & the unusually sounding place names of Splatt & Three Hammers. After the steep climb
up from the mill we turned left along the ridge road to Polyphant with its three fresians on the green. This
short detour meant that we could return to the cars without retracing our steps.
When one plans a picturesque route in an unfamiliar area good visibility is a necessary prerequisite to
ones enjoyment. Unfortunately, it could hardly have been worse but, nevertheless it became a pleasant
day out with much positive. Which I believe to have been partly caffeine fueled! Thanks to Trevor,
Graham R, Larry & John O`Rourke who, these days is looking extremely svelte. Only 36 miles on the
clock but with a fair few hills.

​Dave Newman

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