Manchester Marathon announces cancellation of this year's event

As the Coronavirus Pandemic continues across the world, Manchester Marathon has now announced they will be cancelling the annual event that was due to take place on Sunday 11th October, until April 2021.

The news was announced on Twitter and on the marathon's website, with a statement which read, 'The ongoing uncertainty around restrictions relating to COVID-19 has made confirming the necessary arrangements impossible at this time.'

It continued, 'We apologise to the many of you who were looking forward to running in this much loved event, but it was important to us a decision was taken in good time before runners stepped up their training to longer distances.'

Although the news has obviously come as a disappointment to many running fans and participants they have been replying to the tweet saying, 'Sad training was going well too. But can’t take any risks so completely understand. Let’s hope next year we can do these races again!!!!!!!! Thanks for letting me know well in advance'.

Another wrote, 'Correct decision, and I imagine not an easy one. 99% of runner's would have expected this. Hopefully see you next year for another great event.'

On its website, Manchester Marathon revealed the new date for the event will be Sunday 11th April 2021, with 'Those who were due to run in either the Manchester Marathon, or Tommy’s Manchester Half, have been emailed directly with further information.'

They went on to reveal that those who were set to take part would get the chance to receive a Manchester Marathon 2020 finishers’ medal and T-shirt through a virtual challenge.

Turn it up with Hits Radio! Home of Fleur East, Sam Thompson and Gemma Atkinson playing the biggest hits and the biggest throwbacks, alongside the biggest laughs and life-changing competitions. Tune in on FM, DAB, online, ask your Smart Speaker to 'Play Hits Radio' and download the Rayo app.