ORGANISERS behind the iconic Tour de Yorkshire cycle event have confirmed that this spring's racing will be postponed.

The sixth edition of the annual race was due to take place between April 30 and May 3, but organisers say the developing situation with coronavirus means continuing with it as planned became untenable.

The event, which attracts tens of thousands of spectators and is viewed by millions on TV, was due to visit vast swathes of North Yorkshire, including flood-hit Swaledale communities whose businesses were looking forward to the tourism boost.

Peter Box, Chair of Welcome to Yorkshire said: “The race is a great spectacle, but we all know that the health and well-being of everyone across the region, and the country, is frankly more important than a sporting event.

"Our attention now turns to supporting those tourism businesses across the region, many still reeling from the floods, during this unprecedented crisis.”

The decision to postpone the event was made following consultation with stakeholders and sponsors.

Welcome to Yorkshire held in depth and constructive discussions with both ASO and British Cycling - both TDY race partners - with all parties in agreement that postponement was the right and responsible course of action.

A key factor in the decision was the consideration of the additional burden that such a large-scale event places on the emergency services and local authority partners, at a time when their priorities are rightly elsewhere.

The overriding concern for all partners involved is for the health and safety of the public.