A lovely autumn day saw 10 tandems and one solo set off from Stoke-sub-Hamdon before going to Montacute and clipping the edge of Ham Hill and then to West Chinnock before heading for coffee at The Feed Station at Merriott.  For the next 45 minutes lively conversation replaced lively cycling before setting off again this time for Hinton St George.  With its hamstone cottages and delightful Main Street this is one of the loveliest villages in Somerset.  Peter Weeks, from the West Country group, but also well known by most of the Taunton group, gave an impromptu talk on H W Fowler (1858 – 1933), the famous lexicographer, outside his last home which now wears a blue plaque.  
Next it was Dowlish Wake, Kingstone, the Seavingtons and South Petherton before hitting the home straight through Over Stratton and then to lunch in Norton-sub-Hamdon.  The Lord Nelson was the venue where we were looked after very well and enjoyed some excellent food and atmosphere.  
It really was one of those nice November days – mild, dry and a real pleasure to see the countryside in all its autumn colours as well as to pass through some glorious villages.  Combine this with great stops and even greater company, what a way to ride 25 miles.  
On a sadder note we missed having Malcolm and Grace join us on this ride.  In May this year we celebrated Grace’s 90th birthday but we know that currently she is not well.  She is an inspiration to the entire group and we send her our very best wishes and hope to see her again soon.
Stephen and Sarah Launchbury