Jack wanted another long ride but Dennis and Josh weren't so sure today, so we compromised by riding through Buckfast and Holne to Venford reservoir and then taking the bridleway down through Combestone. We paused for refreshments at the first stream crossing, then found that the path became rather muddy in places after the recent rain. The descent across the sheep-filled fields was great fun as always, but then we hit a major problem. Many of the stepping stones across the river Dart were submerged by the swollen river!

It was a long way back to the road with a lot of climbing, and we were all looking forward to the Badgers Holt cafe. After much thought we decided to remove our shoes and socks and take the plunge so to speak! Michael made several trips to carry all the bikes, but Jack, being a cadet, thought he could carry his own. Unfortunately one of the submerged stones was a little greener and more slippery than he had thought, and when everyone looked around to see what had caused the squeal they saw Jack submerged up to his waist! Michael took his bike for him so that he could pick his way across to the far bank and change into some drier clothes.

The cafe at Badgers Holt provided us with two large plates of very tasty chips and some drinks. We weren't too impressed that they tried to charge 25p to refill Dennis' water bottle - they maintained that they don't have mains water there, so they cannot provide water free as the law demands!

The next challenge was Dartmeet hill, but all the lads coped well, riding most of the way at a good pace. To conclude a fun and adventurous ride we rode Doctor Blackall's drive, pausing at Beltor Corner to admire the spectacular views from the vantage point of a huge slab of granite.

28/3/25: Updated (photo enhancement & upscale, photo time correction)