FINALLY the summer seems to have arrived for Tavistock Wheelers and there was a terrific turnout in Bedford Square last Sunday. Almost 40 riders set off at 8am on a gloriously sunny morning. The vast majority headed for The Viaduct Café in Holsworthy, split into three ability groups. The fastest ones went to Holsworthy via the North Coast of Cornwall but the more rational ones travelled via Hatherleigh or Halwill. The coffee stop was almost 40 miles away and the various return journeys took the total distance travelled to well over 50 miles for all riders.

Wheelers spokesman Tim Woodward said: 'The club are delighted that they are now attracting a wider range of riders. We now have a fair number of female cyclists and a lot of younger riders who have been making their mark in local competitions.

'However, we would like to encourage other riders to join us in order to improve their road cycling and enjoy riding with a sociable group. In particular, we are hoping to attract more junior, youth and lady riders.

'A reasonable level of fitness is required together with a road bike. There are great opportunities to increase fitness, develop skills and stamina, enter sportives and even local races and time trials.'