Gilbert Stephens say hello to the Nello

For the third year, Devon based Solicitors, Gilbert Stephens, is entering a team for the Nello, as well as sponsoring the event and supplying a band of volunteers to help on the day. On June 28th teams of cyclists will head off on the Nello 57 or 100 mile bike ride across the county, to raise much needed funds for FORCE cancer charity.

Around 1500 cyclists will start the ride at Topsham Rugby Club and will make their way up through Devon, to Tiverton Morchard Road, Crediton and all the way back to the finish line in Topsham. The aim of the day is to come together to raise money to fund essential cancer equipment and make cancer services available free of charge and close to home.
The ride commemorates Nello Ghezzo, a Topsham restaurateur and cycling enthusiast, who passed away from cancer in 1999. 15 cycles on and it is now the biggest fundraising event in FORCE’s calendar and raises awareness for others coping with the illness.

Team Gilbert Stephens has been on a rigorous training schedule, swapping after work drinks for work-outs and practice cycles. Marcus Quick, who is entering for the 3rd successive year, says: “It’s a great event to get involved in. It’s such a fantastic cause and not only has it brought together members of our firm from various branches, with our biggest team yet, but also the wider community. We support a number of FORCE events and feel strongly about the cancer charities’ work to help local people with the illness.”

The route takes in the glorious Devon countryside, which should be at its best in June. Cyclists will face challenging hills and enjoy fantastic downhill sections whilst taking in the stunning scenery. Breakfast is provided at the start and along the way there are various foods and drink stations, with yummy treats to help keep entrants fuelled and get them over the finishing line.

Gilbert Stephen’s Chief Executive Officer, Philip Luckham, comments: “The Nello is a fantastic event as it encompasses all of our regional offices. We like to get involved with community events and the Nello provides an opportunity for the whole of the company to either participate, volunteer or to simply cheer on the cyclists across the course.”