The Cyclists’ Touring Club is getting prepared for a celebratory year, as it marks 85 years of cycling together in Devon.

In May 1931, cyclists met at The Courtenay Arms, Starcross, and the Devon CTC was formed.

Since that time the organisation has organised countless rides, including regular Sunday club rides through its various sections (now called member groups), weekends away, holidays and social rides, and, in latter years, audax (long distance) rides like the Dartmoor Devil and Devon Delight.

The first event for 2016 was the Valentine’s Day Massacre 60k ride which set off from Kingskerswell.

In March, many have already signed up for the Mad March Hare audax rides from Exeter, and entries are filling fast for the Devon Dirt off-road event in April.

There is also a three-day cycling break in Brittany, in April.

The club will mark its 85th anniversary at Starcross in May with a big gathering and cream teas provided locally.

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