Cyclist embarks on 120-mile charity ride for Prostate Cancer UK

A 69-year-old from Belstone is gearing up for a three-day, 120-mile bike ride to raise funds for Prostate Cancer UK, following his own experience with the illness. 

The ride, which will see participants cycling from Plymouth to Minehead, is set to take place from June 20-22.

The group is raising funds through their JustGiving page, which has already collected over £1,400, nearing their £1,500 target

Merv Rice, who has lived in Belstone since February 2021, has been an avid cyclist for many years. 

“I really got into more serious cycling as our 2 children were growing up into their teenage years,” he said. 

“Culminating in 2013 when Susie and I along with another couple cycled from Lands End to John o'Groats. Since then we have done various cycling adventures, most recently the Rebellion Way in Norfolk.”

In October 2023, Merv was diagnosed with prostate cancer. 

“After my Prostate Cancer diagnosis and a year of on and off treatment I decided that 2025 had to be a better year and so this charity ride is the outcome of my son and 2 friends coming together,” he explained.

The oncology team recommended exercise, particularly to maintain his strength and stamina during treatment.

The challenge, which was inspired by Merv's friend Gavin Punchard, will involve cycling approximately 120 miles mostly off-road over three days. 

“That was like a red rag to a bull,” Merv said of the invitation to join the Prostate Cancer UK challenge. 

His son Joe, a first aid trainer, will also be taking part, along with their friend Chris Bonnett, who enjoys cycling on Dartmoor. 

“Joe wanted to be part of the challenge, that might be useful as he is a first aid trainer!” Merv added. 

Chris, also has a personal connection to cancer. 

His wife was diagnosed with breast cancer in early 2024, and he had previously completed the Nello 100-mile bike ride in aid of Force Cancer Charity.

Merv is determined to raise as much as possible for Prostate Cancer UK.

You can support the group here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/mervrice