The Nello is back and cyclists can’t wait

One of Devon’s most iconic outdoor events is back this summer after a two-year break.

And the good news is, there’s still time to be a part of it.

The Nello bike ride - FORCE’s Cancer Charity’s biggest single fundraising event of the year – will take place on Sunday June 26.

Up to 1,500 cyclists will gather on the start line at Topsham Rugby Club, ready to take on the personal challenge of riding 55 or 100 miles.

The event has been virtual for the past two years due to COVID – riders choosing when and where to ride.

But there is real excitement building towards the day when that special Nello atmosphere, generated by so many people getting together for a common cause, returns.

“The Nello is part of my life. I look forward to it every year and wouldn’t dream of missing it,” said event founder Marc Millon.

The Nello has raised more than £1.2 million for the charity since it was first staged in 2000.

This year’s event will generate funds to ensure FORCE can continue its mission to support anyone locally affected by cancer.

It is particularly important as the charity looks to maintain its vital services against the backdrop of a significant reduction in income due to COVID.

The ride is now in its 23rd year but it was actually 25 years ago that the late Nello Ghezzo and Marc Millon pedalled from Topsham to Venice to raise funds and awareness about the importance of funding cancer support.

Event organiser Sarah Daniels said: “We had to make The Nello virtual for the last two years but this year will be real and while FORCE has never been needed so much by our beneficiaries, we’ve also never needed you so much so that we can support those facing a cancer diagnosis in our area.

“The impact of the pandemic on cancer patients is well documented. Clinical services are under significant pressure. The psychological and emotional fallout from delayed treatment or late diagnosis as a result of COVID-19 is emerging and poses very real challenges. It means the demand for our services increases week on week.

“Money raised from The Nello can play a significant part in helping FORCE support people in our community.

“So please sign up today. Join the team on the start line and help raise awareness and funds for FORCE on Sunday June 26.”

For more information or to enter, go to forcecancercharity.co.uk/events-calendar/the-nello-2022/

AND REMEMBER…

Everyone is welcome.

Any sort of bike is permitted. There is a growing trend in electric bikes and FORCE has no problem with Nello cyclists using one. It’s all about taking part.

Spectators are welcome on the course and at Topsham Rugby Club to see the cyclists off and welcome them home.