Gidleigh Bridge - 7 Feb 10
I got to the start late - 9.47 am, but I had phoned our ride leader, Anna, to check the elevenses venue and say I would be late. Graham Reed caught me up on the bridge above the A38 and we arrived at Endsleigh not long after the others. I was a very good turn-out considering the weather - Andy P, Bryan R, Graham B, Graham R, Anna, Caroline, Iris, Patrick, Andy, George and myself.
It was a hard ride with a really steep climb from S Brent. We were strung out all along the lane. By the time I got to the top, the group ahead had already turned off to the left. I continued right along the main trail, followed by Patrick. We were almost at Habourtonford before we realised our mistake and then had to re-trace back up the hill we’d descended. By the time we arrived at Gidleigh Bridge, the rest of the section had finished their sandwiches and were getting pretty cold, so Patrick and I had to fore-go lunch.
What needs to be said about this ride is the shocking state of the roads. Roads in Plymouth have suffered quite extensive weather damage due to the constant rain and more recent freezing conditions. In the back lanes around Gidleigh it has to be seen to be believed with mud, water and road damage affecting most roads. Descending the lane from Gidleigh Bridge to Dean was treacherous.
Maybe it would be a good idea to give these lanes a miss until better weather arrives, but when will that be? Today seemed particularly cold - probably because of the dampness in the air and quite a stiff breeze. I think most of us were quite relieved to get home and toast our feet in front of the fire.
What a contrast with yesterday, which despite the weather forecast turned out to be a clear and sunny day. Graham Black and I took of advantage it to walk from Two Bridges to Flat Tor - click <here> to see the gallery. It was a good opportunity to try out my newly acquired eTrex Vista, a really impressive piece of kit!