A BRIDGWATER man has organised a charity cycle ride in memory of one of his close friends.

Nigel Adlam, along with his son Tommy Adlam, will be riding from Bridgwater to Taunton and back again along the canal route, and others are invited to join in.

The cycle will take place on August 14, in memory of Allan Elson, and will raise funds for the Chelsea FC foundation charity.

Allan died recently aged 60, and was a life member of the Marketeers Carnival Club in Bridgwater.

He also played football at Bridgwater Town and Blake Old Boys Football Club.

Nigel said: "My friend Allan recently passed away.

"He was a well known local footballer and we are cycling along the canal from Bridgwater to Taunton and back again in his memory.

"We're raising money for the Chelsea Football Club foundation charity, which helps terminally ill children and adults.

"The cycle is in his memory and it's a nice cycle route- we're not going after thousands of pounds as it's more of an enjoyable family thing as a tribute.

"Some of Allan's family will be joining in and we'll be wearing blue.

"The more the merrier- would be nice to have people join us from Taunton too- and Allan's wife is 100% behind us."

Nigel explained that the charity was chosen due to the work they put into helping people all over the world.

He said: "The charity is fantastic because it makes the youngsters feel great.

"Some of the players go to see the children and it cheers them up and really does make their dreams comes true.

"Allan was a well respected local footballer and would've loved this charity.

"They help people all over the world."

The Chelsea Foundation works on a range of initiatives focusing on employment, education, social deprivation, crime reduction, youth offending and much more.

To donate to Nigel's cause, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Nigel-Adlam1