High Wycombe's Race for Life has been cancelled this year because of coronavirus.

Organisers of the Cancer Research UK annual event say they "regret" to announce the race's cancellation, which was due to take place on Sunday, July 19, at The Rye.

Pippa Waite, Cancer Research UK event manager for High Wycombe, said: “As the coronavirus outbreak continues to unfold, we are listening to the advice and guidance of the UK Government carefully.

“While our priority is ensuring that people affected by cancer get the support and information they need during unprecedented times, we’re having to work quickly to understand the impact the pandemic will have on Cancer Research UK’s fundraising.

“We have urgently reviewed our events, including Race for Life. As the safety of our supporters, volunteers, suppliers and staff across the hundreds of Race for Life events due to take place in 2020 is incredibly important we have made the decision to postpone the events scheduled in May, June and July.

"We will aim to deliver as many events as possible later in the year but unfortunately Race for Life High Wycombe has, for this year, been cancelled.

“We know this will be a huge disappointment to our supporters, but I’m sure they will understand. We’ll be in touch with everyone who has signed up as soon as possible to let them know next steps.

“Since it began, Race for Life has raised over £890m for Cancer Research UK’s life-saving work. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has taken part and hope their support will continue.”

Although High Wycombe's race has been completely cancelled, Race for Life Aylesbury has only been postponed, with a new event planned for October 18.

Participants who have already signed up for a Race for Life event will be contacted directly by the charity.

Organisers are aiming to deliver as many Race for Life events as possible later in the year so participants may choose to take part in another Race for Life event in the south east this autumn.

Participants can request a refund or donate the entry fee to help fund life-saving cancer research.