ON behalf of the Prostate Cancer Charity I would like to extend a huge thank you to the people of Devon for the incredible support they have shown to the charity's South West Tour Ride, which came to the region on Sunday, September 5.

More than 1,500 cyclists saddled up to take part in the event, which was held in partnership with the Tour of Britain, which gave people the unique opportunity to try out a stage of The Tour of Britain for themselves. Riding alongside the cyclists were Olympic gold medallist Daley Thompson and Smooth Radio DJ Mark Goodier. They were also joined by five members of the Rapha Condor Sharp professional team, who showed the riders how it was done.  

Hundreds of people from across the region took to the streets to cheer on the weary (and slightly wet) riders as they made their way to the finish line after tackling the tough 175km and 70km routes. The crowds were also on hand to show their support for the 100 people who took part in the gentler 2km family ride.

The tour ride proved to be a brilliant way of raising awareness of prostate cancer, which is the most common cancer in men in the UK. Across all of our events, we are aiming to raise £500,000, which will help the charity to continue fighting the disease on every front — through research, support, information and campaigning.

The people of Devon were amazing and the support they have shown to the Prostate Cancer Charity has been great. We all had a memorable day and would like to thank everyone who cheered on the cyclists and dipped in to their pockets. Hopefully we will see you all again next year!

Mark Bishop

Director of fundraising

Prostate Cancer Charity