TWO cyclists taking part in a charity ride in aid of FORCE Cancer Charity, were involved in a collision, it is believed involving a car, at Half Moon, near Exeter, on the A377 during the afternoon of Sunday, June 26, which resulted in the road being closed to traffic for more than an hour.

More than 1,000 cyclists took part in the Nello cycle challenge, the charity’s major fundraising event, covering 100 or 55-miles.

The start was at Topsham Rugby Club and the cyclists on the longer route cycled as far as Exmoor.

Trina Lake, PR Consultant, FORCE Cancer Charity, said that the two cyclists who were injured were taken to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital and were both released that evening after treatment.

She said that the cyclists had re-joined the A377 at the Langford turning and the accident had occurred shortly afterwards.

She said that otherwise the race was “incident free” and she thanked those people who watched and cheered on the cyclists.

“The Nello raises about £80,000 a year for FORCE and we cannot thank enough those people who take part and their sponsors,” she added.

Sarah Daniels, FORCE Head of Fundraising, said: "Sunday was amazing. Everybody came with a smile; set off and completed their challenge and went off knowing they had a great day – all in the name of charity.

 "The 17th Nello bike ride was most definitely one of the best. The atmosphere was so friendly, relaxed and happy – it was superb.

"Our last refreshment stop was just outside of Crediton, in Morchard Road.

“Both rides meet here so more than 1,000 cyclists stop for their final fuelling before their legs have to go through the final 20 miles.

“The volunteers, many of whom are local, set up from 8am and served food and drink to our weary cyclists until 5pm.

“It is a long day with a lot of hard work – but it is all done with a smile and genuine enjoyment.

“Local support was given by The Bike Shed; volunteers support from Gilbert Stephens and help on providing refreshments came from WF Chinns, Ernest Jackson and Gregory’s transportation based nearby."

The Stagecoach bus service from Exeter to Crediton was cancelled during the road closure.

Alan Quick