DULL weather did nothing to dampen the spirits of Tavistock Young Farmers who held their first ever charity fun ride recently.

Despite rain and fog, 54 riders and their horses turned up to take part in the 15-mile ride in aid of Dartmoor Search and Rescue Group.

The public event saw riders start from Burrator Reservoir and head up over the moor, following a marked route and taking a lunch stop halfway round.

All who participated had a fantastic time and from all the positive feedback, Tavistock YFC is hoping to hold another ride next year.

The club expressed special thanks to David and Justine Colton who allowed riders to stop at Tor Royal Farm for lunch.

The total amount raised has not yet been calculated but will be added to the money made at the annual charity dung sale which Tavistock YFC held in March.

Two members from Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team came to see the riders off.

Lynda Williams, fundraising officer, said: 'Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team (Tavistock) are indebted to the Tavistock Young Farmers for this superb fundraising effort.

'For those who don't know us, we are unpaid volunteers who give 24/7 assistance to the police, providing an all-weather search and rescue service, not only on Dartmoor but also in the surrounding rural area.

'As a local charity, we rely on donations such as this to maintain our vehicles and equipment to the high standard required for the safety of casualties and our own personnel.

'Well done and thank you, Tavi Young Farmers!'

Tavistock YFC now has 64 members and is going from strength to strength each year.

A spokesperson for the club said: 'We are always looking for new members to join us and you don't have to be from a farming background to be a young farmer.

'We take members on from the age of 10 through to 26 and the club is always holding different activities such as stock judging, sheep shearing, charity events, cinema, bowling and discos to name but a few.

'There is something for everyone and it's a great club to be a part of if you're interested in the countryside and making new friends.'

The club's next activity is a race night on Friday July 1 at Lifton Strawberry Fields with the first race starting at 7.30pm.

Anyone interested in joining Tavistock Young Farmers can contact secretary Zoe Deeble on 07837 827321 or chairman Phil Blowey on 07792 558462.