The May ride of the Taunton group was blessed with a glorious sunny day after a real downpour the previous day. Arriving at Fordmore Farm Shop and Cafe in Cullompton, it was evident that everyone was keen to fuel up on coffee.
Once assembled in the car park and the obligatory photo call, we set off at a good pace with 9 tandems and 5 solos on a circular route along some beautiful East Devon lanes. The ride was led by Ed and Gary with Mike being the sweeper up. Soon Mike called in to Ed to say that someone’s battery had been left behind but they were able to catch up shortly afterwards. The route took us through the hamlet of Mutterton then Clyst Hydon and Talaton villages. 

 A coffee stop at Escot House was most welcome. This is the family home of the Kennaway family and the Wildwood Enterprise visitor attractions. 
The route headed east and then north passing through the villages of Feniton, Payhembury and Luton. Gradually climbing there were views of Dartmoor followed by a descent back to our start point. The route also had some challenging road conditions due to the farmyard debris and evident water run-off from the fields. The narrow lanes were not too busy but good weather does bring out the motorists and tractors with trailers too. 

We arrived back for a well-earned lunch. There was an additional 10 mile loop organised by Jeff and Vicky afterwards but most were satisfied with the 28 miles of mixed terrain, some having made journeys from Torbay and Bristol to join us. 

Ed and Gary