BRILLIANT, fantastic and superb – just some of the words used to describe FORCE Cancer Charity’s 26th Nello bike ride.

A total of 1,330 cyclists signed up to take part in the charity’s annual fundraising event, always held on the final Sunday in June.

Nello participants after finishing it last month with Paul Clifford, second right.
Nello participants after finishing it last month with Paul Clifford, second right. (FORCE)

This year’s Nello is on course to raise more than £50,000, which will help FORCE in its mission to provide free support and advice to people in Devon affected by cancer.

“Huge thanks to all the cyclists, volunteers, supporters and businesses, especially Bike Shed, who make this event so special,” said Nello organiser Chloe Richardson from FORCE.

“We’d also like to express our gratitude to the communities around the course, like the Crediton area, who make FORCE and our cyclists welcome on this special day every year. It means so much to us and the people we’re here to help,” she added.

Topsham-based wine, food, and travel writer Marc Millon, pictured with his wife Kim and their tandem, centre, set up The Nello in 2000 to raise money for FORCE Cancer Charity in memory of his great friend Nello Ghezzo. They are pictured with friends after completing the 2025 Nello.
Topsham-based wine, food, and travel writer Marc Millon, pictured with his wife Kim and their tandem, centre, set up The Nello in 2000 to raise money for FORCE Cancer Charity in memory of his great friend Nello Ghezzo. They are pictured with friends after completing the 2025 Nello. (FORCE)

The event starts and finishes at Topsham Rugby Club with riders tackling either 100 or 60 miles.

Paul Clifford completed the 100-mile route less than five months after major surgery to remove his bladder, prostate and lymph nodes after a shock cancer diagnosis last year.

“What a superb event you all at FORCE put on! Thank you all so much for everything and hopefully a little more money trickles in,” said Paul, who has already raised £2,562.50 including Gift Aid.

On Higher Road in Crediton, cyclists taking part in the Nello. AQ 5322
On Higher Road in Crediton, cyclists taking part in the Nello. AQ 5322 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Cyclists taking part in the Nello on Higher Road in Crediton. AQ 5316
Cyclists taking part in the Nello on Higher Road in Crediton. AQ 5316 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Dave Holt added: “What a fantastic day, such a brilliant event as always. Thank you to all of the organisers and volunteers and a big shout out to the Bike Shed chap who fixed my snapped gear cable so that I could finish the last 19miles. Legend!”

Kevin Goss said: “Great day as always, very big thanks to all the volunteers, the Bike Shed and of course Topsham Rugby Club for providing such a wonderful venue!”