THE Bournemouth Bay Run has been cancelled due to coronavirus restrictions.

Thousands of runners had already signed up for next month's event.

Now they will have to wait until next year to take part in the full event.

But they are still being encouraged to run this year and submit their times, which will be collated.

They are also being urged to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.

In a statement issued by BCP Council, a spokesman said: "After much consideration, and in line with government advice, the decision has been made to cancel the AXA Heath 2021 Bournemouth Bay Run.

"The newly sponsored AXA Health Bournemouth Bay Run will take place next year on April 3 2022 and your running place will be automatically deferred to that date."

Organisers hope runners will still complete the event, regardless of where they are. the options are a half-marathon, 10k or 5k.

"Despite us not being able to gather together and run along our beautiful coastline, we still want to keep the community spirit alive" added the spokesman.

"This year we are encouraging all runners to raise money for the BHF, run their race distance and submit their times regardless of where they are. Times will be collated, we’ll have a leader board and everyone who takes part will have the chance to win one of two Garmin watches.

"What’s more if you raise £60 for BHF’s 60th Birthday you will receive a free BHF running t-shirt. Just run your distance between now and March 28 and enter your race time on our online form.

"Good luck to everyone running and supporting our different Bay Run this year. We really do look forward to welcoming you all back in 2022."