OLYMPIC gold medallist Daley Thompson and radio DJ Mark Goodier were among almost 2,000 cyclists who got in the saddle to Teignmouth for The Prostate Cancer Charity.

The famous duo led cyclists ahead of the official Tour of Britain who had responded to the charity's call to 'Unite ByCycling' and raise awareness of the disease on a tough, but scenic 70km route from Honiton to Teignmouth.

Mr Goodier, whose father-in-law died from the disease, finished in two and a half hours.

He said: "It was an amazing experience. There was a real community spirit at the start, which was very welcome given the challenge that was facing us.

"It was definitely the most difficult terrain I have ever experienced. I'm just glad to have survived.

"This is a very important cause to me for personal reasons. My father-in-law, Bill, died from the disease. He was a great man."

He added: "We need as many men as possible to increase their awareness of prostate cancer, and take control of their health by talking to their doctor about a PSA test."

Double Olympic gold decathlon medallist Daley Thompson made swift work of the Tour Ride, which is an official stage of The Tour of Britain.

Mr Thompson said: "I did the Tour Ride in London last year, but this event was on a whole new level.

"As a decathlete I have mastered many sports. It was good to challenge myself with something different.

"There was one hill in particular that caught out most of the cyclists. It was a pretty tough ride, but it was for a worthwhile cause."

As all the riders approached the finish line in Teignmouth they were greeted by cheering crowds, who were soaking up the festival atmosphere.

The seaside town had earlier played home to the Charity's Family Ride, where people of all ages and abilities were invited to get on their bikes and enjoy a gentle 2km ride.

Councillor Ian Parkes, the Mayor of Teignmouth said: "I haven't been on a bike since 1963 and had to borrow one from my brother-in-law for today.

"It was a great event and I was glad to see so many people here for such a worthy cause. Men all need to be more aware of this disease.

"One of my former colleagues died from prostate cancer, before his death he encouraged men, who may be at risk, to simply have a chat with their GP."

Some hardy souls took on the full 175km route all the way from Minehead, Somerset, which is recognised as the toughest stage in the Tour of Britain.

Five members of the Rapha Condor Sharp team completed it as a warm up for Britain's premier road race, which will take place later this month.

For more information on Unite ByCycling events rides visit www.tourride.co.uk.