Old Mill accountants and financial planners will begin their four day trip from St Malo to Yeovil tomorrow (Saturday, July 8) in memory of colleague and friend Nick Baker.

Sidmouth Herald: Family and friends have remembered Nick Baker who died at the age of 43.Family and friends have remembered Nick Baker who died at the age of 43. (Image: Archant)

Friends and colleagues of a popular Sidmouth man are launching a cycling challenge in his memory to raise money for charity.

Nick Baker died at the age of 43 in August 2016 following a short battle with cancer.

He was remembered by friends and family for being able to ‘turn his hand’ to any sporting activity, including football, rugby, golf, cycling, triathlon and three London Marathons.

Colleagues at Old Mill group of Exeter will set off tomorrow (July 8) from St Malo in France back to its offices in Yeovil.

The 207 mile trip has been named the Nick Baker Memorial Ride in tribute to their ‘action man’ colleague.

Friend David Rice, who has helped organise the challenge, said: “Losing him was a real shock, and it has been really difficult for everyone who worked with him. We all felt we wanted to do something in his memory, and a ride together just seemed like the perfect idea.”

The trip is estimated to take four days and has currently raised £12,000. The money will be split between Marie Curie and School in a Bag - which sends rucksacks of items to poor, orphan, disadvantaged and disaster children.

Nick’s parents Michael and Priscilla chose the charity as their son had previously taken on two cycling challenges to boost the cause.

David added: “Nick was a true action man; he was a marathon runner, had completed John o’ Groats to Land’s End cycle challenge and also took part in the two previous Old Mill cycle rides to raise money for School in a Bag.

“He was a much-loved character and a great support during both rides, offering support, knowledge and advice whilst on two wheels and well in to the evenings on both challenges.”

To donate visit: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/nickbakerOM