The Women's Cycle Tour, which was going to race through Suffolk, has been postponed due to concerns of the Coronavirus spreading.

The final leg of race was set for between Haverhill and Felixstowe in June, skirting past the peninsula as it wound its way through the parts of Babergh

Organisers took the decision after consultation with stakeholders, sponsors and partners, decided to postpone the upcoming seventh edition of the annual professional cycle race (scheduled to take placed between Monday 8 – Saturday 13 June) due to the current international uncertainty surrounding the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

The decision has been taken early in light of the worsening global situation, following discussions with event stakeholders and partners, in order to provide certainty to the many parties involved in the planning and organisation of the event, including local authorities, police and health services in the UK.

As a part of the UCI Women's WorldTour, the Women's Tour attracts a significant international presence from teams, riders, officials, staff and media, and it is felt that the risk of increased restrictions on international travel would be detrimental to the future of the race should an early, and conclusive, decision not be made.

Organisers hope to work with the UCI and British Cycling to find an alternative date in the international cycling calendar for the race to take place should conditions permit.

Cllr James Reeder, Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member for Public Health and Prevention, said: "Whilst it is disappointing to hear that the race won't happen on the planned date, I can completely understand why this considered decision has been taken by the race organiser SweetSpot.

"The council fully supports their decision given the ever evolving situation with coronavirus in the UK at present. I fully understand the need to consider the health and safety of all communities, competitors and partners involved in a such well-attended public event.

"I look forward to working with the organisers when they are in a position to announce the new date."

The tour postponement, joins a lengthening list of sporting cancellations nationwide, with all professional football matches cancelled until April 3, Six Nations matches called off, along with many golf, tennis and Formula One events.

Follow official advice on how to protect yourself, and others, from Coronavirus Peninsula Nub News' Covid-19 guide.