The first half of this ride was definitely the most enjoyable. The autumn leaves were even more glorious now than they had been the previous week as we tackled the lane route from Gappah over Haldon. In order to gain speedy access to the Kenn Valley, the group took the main road over Telegraph Hill (descending in a very controlled way of course) and then (on Steven's advice) climbed the picturesque lane up to Hayden Common for a well-earned lunch. Quite why Jamie had to eat his up a tree remained a mystery.

Setting off once again through the deciduous woodlands we came across an amazing sight - four pheasants on a gate at the end of a grassy track, with more fluttering around in the field beyond. There seemed to be wildlife everywhere, which seemed surprising considering how close Exeter was.

The last part of the valley was flat but scenic, bringing us out to Powderham and eventually Starcross for refreshments against a stiffening headwind and ever threatening skies. Mark's broken valve at the beginning of the coastal footpath delayed us sufficiently to arrive at Dawlish just as the rain was settling in. Steven and Jamie didn't have far to go, but the rest got somewhat damp as they cycled through Teignmouth, Shaldon and Netherton. Those who didn't have lights had to telephone for transport, so please remember to bring working lights on all rides until the end of March.