The 2020 Harbour2Harbour Walk has been cancelled because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Organisers say they are planning to run the popular family-friendly event again next year.

With support from homebuilder Dandara, it had been due to take place on Sunday, May 17, starting from Castletown Square and ending at the former Marine Biological Centre in Port Erin.

However, it has now been called off until further notice.

Event organiser Janet Bridle said: ’While we are naturally disappointed, the priority is for everyone to stay safe.

’In the meantime, rest assured that we are looking forward to the 2021 Harbour2Harbour being bigger and better than ever.

’The walk just gets bigger and better and we couldn’t do it without our amazing sponsor Dandara, or all of our wonderful volunteers, so a big thank you to them for their ongoing support and commitment.’

Last year’s walk saw a record-breaking 691 people participating, as well as more than 40 dogs, raising in excess of £7,000 for the beneficiary charities: Southern Community Initiatives (SCI), Men in Sheds and Southern Nomads RUFC.

Dandara marketing manager Angela Beresford said: ’We know how hard the organisers of the Harbour2Harbour work to make the event a success but, given the government announcements and the need for everyone to social distance, we feel the most responsible approach is to postpone.

’We are proud to continue our support for H2H and look forward to seeing it go from strength to strength when this challenging period for everyone is over.’