TWO major running events in Powys have been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Rhayader Around the Lakes event in the Elan Valley, set for Saturday, March 21, has also been cancelled for this year, and the Welshpool 10K on Sunday, March 29 has also been postponed.

A spokesman for the organisers of the Welshpool 10K said: "Due to fears for public safety with the growing number of coronavirus cases in the UK, the Welshpool 10k will be postponed to a new date in the future.

"We will now work with the relevant partners to identify a new and suitable date for our race.

"As you can imagine we are extremely sad about this situation but the safety of the runners, volunteers and local community is the most important part of our event.

"Thanks for your understanding and support."

While the Rhayader Around the Lakes event has been cancelled for this year, organisers have confirmed their intentions for it to return next year.

Race director Derek Price said: "Everyone must now be aware of the escalation of the situation and the event Committee have taken the regrettable decision to cancel this year’s races.

"It was a decision not taken lightly, but the decision was to eliminate the risk.

"Entrants will now be deferred to next year’s race, planned for Saturday, March 6, 2021. Once deferred, entrants will be able to refund their place if they wish. Details about this will follow.

"Cancellation is in line with our cancellation policy.

"We have an over-riding responsibility to keep everyone as safe as possible, both you the runners and our amazing volunteers."

He added: "Next week, after the committee meets on Tuesday evening, we will transfer all entries to the 2021 race which will be on Saturday, March 6, all being well. Then we will open the 2021 races to you so that you can use your existing RiderHQ logon to refund your place should you wish. If you are happy to be transferred to the 2021 race, you need do nothing.

"Please note that there will be a fee to refund to cover costs and in line with our policy but in view of the current situation deferral to 2021 will be free.

"Queries via PM or email will be answered as quickly as possible but please remember we are a volunteer, non profit committee who mostly have jobs and run the race because we love running and want to support our community in Rhayader."