CYCLISTS numbering at least 1,500 will be out in force on the roads around Crediton on Sunday, June 26 in a colourful event that has raised thousands of pounds for local cancer charity FORCE in the past five years.

Crediton plays a significant part in the success of the biggest fundraising event in the charity’s calendar.

The Nello ride is sponsored by The Bike Shed, which has shops in Crediton, Exeter and Barnstaple and is also supported by W F Chinn, sausage manufacturers, based at Lords Meadow Industrial Estate, Crediton.

Cyclists are given the chance to tackle 100 or 55 mile courses around the Devon countryside, starting and finishing at Topsham Rugby Club.

The riders head out at 8am from Topsham to the first food and drink station at Tiverton Rugby Club. There the routes split.

The 100-mile cyclists make for Dulverton, via Exebridge, up on to Exmoor via the B3223, through Simonsbath and on to South Molton, where there is a stop at Quince Honey Farm before heading to Morchard Road via the B3226.

Those doing the 55 mile route ride from Tiverton to Withleigh, on to Nomansland and then Black Dog, Brownstone and Morchard Bishop.

All cyclists meet at Morchard Road and head back to Exeter via Shobrooke, Efford and Shute (avoiding Crediton).

They then join the A377 near Cowley Bridge and go back across Exeter to the finish at Topsham Rugby Club (officially via Bonhay Road and the by-pass) on to Topsham Road.

An independent charity founded in 1987, FORCE provides help for patients, their families and friends at its Support Centre at the the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital.

It also funds a local research programme and buys high-tech equipment to enhance patient care at the hospital.

FORCE is also appealing for volunteer helpers are needed at the Morchard Road refreshment stop any time between 12.30pm and 5pm.

All cyclists go through Morchard Road where they can stop for pasties, rolls, crisps, cakes, cakes flapjacks and hot and cold drinks before they tackle the final 19.4 miles to the finish at Topsham Rugby Club.

Anyone who can spare an hour or two to help refuel the intrepid riders should contact FORCE Head of Fundraising, Sarah Daniels, on telephone 01392 403066 or email: [email protected] .