Twelve hardy souls gathered on a cold, sunny and mercifully wind free morning to explore Plympton. We headed underneath the noisy A38 flyover into the much more peaceful Saltram estate where we paused to admire the former stables housing the National Trust visitor facilities. Soon we enjoyed far reaching views of the city skyline and glimpses of Plymouth Sound.

The lunch stop was at the new crematorium. Built to an impressive modern design and set in attractive landscaped grounds with proper benches to sit and eat our sandwiches. The ice on the lake had still not melted by this time.

After lunch we descended a steep lane (Drunken Bridge Hill) into Plympton St Maurice. A settlement since at least Saxon times and fortified by the Normans with a motte and bailey castle. The high street is lined with many fine buildings in lots of different architectural styles. We paused to learn about the guildhall and the old grammar school before reaching the ruins of the castle. Of course it just had to be climbed so most of the group went to the top while others entertained themselves on the swings.

It was only a short hop back into the neighbouring parish of Plympton St Mary and the warmth and shelter of the home of one of the members. Some New Year resolutions were cast aside and a small mountain of cake was demolished.

Mike