Head over to our Facebook Group at:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/759420652619311/?ref=share_group_link

Here you will be able to download and print a pdf leaflet of our 2024 Events Programme.

N.B.if you are not already a member of our Facebook group, on entry to the above link just click on the ‘join’ button to request your membership.     

 Guy Fawkes Run 5th November 2023

Eight determined riders met for our Guy Fawkes Run on the 5^th November at the Quay Café, Velator, all ready to defy the torrential showers which were raking across the county in the aftermath of Storm Ciaran.  

This was our last run of the year for which Andy, our trusty ride leader, had promised us rugged coastal views and wild Exmoor scenery.  We were not disappointed.  As we headed north through Saunton, Croyde and Woolacombe we were met with spectacular views of angry Atlantic surf crashing into the shore.  A swift U-turn was made at the top of Morthoe Hill so we could enjoy the sea views again riding from the other direction.  Andy assured us this had nothing to do with an impromptu road closure in Morthoe village!  We continued our journey through Combe Martin following the lanes past Hunters Inn, taking it steady on some tricky sections awash with water and run-off debris from the recent storms.   Finally, a quick blast down the A39 took us to the Old Station House Inn at Blackmoor Gate where we relaxed for lunch and a chat. 

Somehow, the Weather Gods had been kind to us as we managed to dodge the heavy showers that were seen sweeping across Exmoor.  Everyone headed swiftly home after lunch, Andy’s Norton ES2 suffered a few hiccups which thankfully cleared up after a stern talking to, and Dave and Di Beacham deserve a special mention in dispatches for riding to join us from Whiddon Down in such unsettled weather.

 

Ruby run 081023

 

11 riders arrived at Jonesey’s cafe at Winkleigh for the Ruby run, our penultimate run for this busy year. It was Cliff’s turn to plan and lead and he obviously takes his role seriously as Chairman because we found ourselves tested for Monza and  Dakar all in one trip!, in the event, we all passed his tests and came away with satisfaction of a good day out and successful feeling of accomplishment. I for one saw some roads ( and lanes ), that I had not travelled on before and when Ian said he had not travelled on some of the roads then that was telling.

Lunch was taken at the north Tamar lakes rest area in lovely sunshine with some great views, and the runs end saw us arrive at Torrington common for an ice cream. On a day like this it’s clear to see that we have a great set of guys in our club and more should be encouraged to join us.

Thanks to Cliff who planned and led this his first go at planning and leading and to John who took our sign on details, brought up the rear and sent me some photos, along with Andy and Pete. Next run will be on the 5th November to start from the Quay cafe at Braunton where we will be led by Andy on his very enjoyable coastal meander.

Just a note whilst I have your attention, our monthly meetings will continue at the Town Arms in South Molton until next March, after which for the duration of the evening meets we will count those meets as the monthly club nights until next October when announcements will be made for our way forward.

Evening run 140923

 

After, what for me was, a lovely dry evening ride to the Portsmouth Arms on Tuesday evening, I was met with two dejected riders, Andy and Nick, sat outside with nothing to eat or drink as the pub was closed due to illness of the landlord. However some discussion's took place of a useful nature when John rolled up declaring he was hungry!. Andy recalled that it was a bike night at Barnstaple so the northerners set off to join them, I on the other hand headed back home via Crediton where I noticed many bikes outside the cafe in the high street there.

It was a shame since this was our last evening ride this year, although those of us who manage to attend the evening meets seem to enjoy the ride and company. Apologies to Tony who apparently arrived at the Portsmouth arms just minutes after we had all left. There doesn’t seem to be the attendance these meets deserve, perhaps 2024 will be better.

Club night next week is the AGM please make an effort to attend, it’s your chance to have your say and maybe make suggestions for the way forward, our next run is the Ruby run from Jonesey’s cafe at Winkleigh on the 8th October usual time folks.

Three Tors Run : Bodmin Moor Video

Our Aussie friend, John Heather, has very kindly sent us a nice little video of our gathering at Rough Tor/Brown Willy on Bodmin Moor.

Hopefully you can view it through the link below to John’s Google Drive:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VbPQSclzTzxQhN4svvBMJ1jHdzNPGtZK/view?usp=drivesdk

John, it was great to meet you, thanks for your interest, maybe we’ll see you over here again sometime, you will be welcomed. 

Dartmoor Run, 10th September 2023

After a week of sunshine, the weather was starting to break with thunderstorms and heavy showers tracking north early on Sunday morning.  Thankfully, on the ride south to our start at  Whiddon Down Services, the skies cleared leaving high Dartmoor looked temptingly clear and bright on the horizon.  From Whiddon Down, Ian B led off our very select group of six riders, following his trademark mix of ‘proper’ roads and unspoilt, ancient lanes, which often barely qualify as roads!  Fine views were had on the way to our lunch stop at the Fox Tor Cafe, Princetown, where we relaxed and chatted in the sunshine.

 After lunch we threaded our way back, taking in more lovely landscapes on the high moor, passing Haytor Rocks and Becky Falls.  The run finished in the square at Mortonhampsted, cooling off and taking tea and cake at the Central Café before heading for home.  

Our thanks to Ian for treating us to another great tour of some the  finest roads and views that Dartmoor has to offer.

 

 PLEASE NOTE: Change of evening pub venue, Thursday 14th September

Owing to an unforeseen clash with an event at the Poltimore Arms, we are changing the venue of our evening pub meet on Thursday 14th September to The Portsmouth Arms Hotel, which is on the A377 about 4 miles south of Umberleigh.  There is a welcoming landlord plus easy parking and outdoor seating for trainspotters.  Last orders for food 8pm.  We hope to see you there!