Nigel and Mercedes led the September ride which started from Barnstaple on a very sunny September Saturday morning. We started with a cup of coffee at the Bike Shed some cafe which was perfect. This also proved to be an opportunity to stock up on any cycling essentials which had been forgotten. The first task was to gain from sea level some height (800 feet) over approximately five miles to Shirwell. This height did not have to be regained during the ride. Subsequently, gloriously quiet country lanes were enjoyed to Berry Down Cross where the A3123 is joined. This road, although busier was still relatively quiet since was outside the school holidays. To our right there were clear views across to South Wales. Straight ahead Lundy was clearly visible. It was at this point that our one and only puncture was encountered. This led to a division of labour along gender stereotype lines, the four male cyclists doing a combination of careful inspection and violent wrestling with the offending wheel to fix the problem. We were soon on our way again but the offending tandem riders suffering from a mild dose of P.P.A. (post puncture anxiety). However this did soon pass.

At Turnpike Cross we turned off on to another quiet lane and descended into Georgeham and particularly the 'Rock public house where we had an excellent lunch. We then continued on our way down into the popular coastal village of Croyde and subsequently on to Braunton via the scenic and flat lanes of Braunton Burrows. It was at this point that the Tarka Tail was joined. The gates were negotiated very expertly by all tandems with hardly a foot down at any point. We continued along the north bank of the Taw estuary and were very much flattered by being greeted by a marching band as we reached Barnstaple. It was actually because of the town carnival which was soon to start though! A refreshing cup of tea at Tea in the Taw' seemed appropriate. This 'retro' cafe is strategically positioned on the cycle path itself. At this point we were almost back at our starling point which is the Barnstaple 'park and ride'. In total it was 37 miles with 1400 feet of climbing, the vast majority of which is gained in the first 7 miles with a single steady climb.