The semi-final of the Carling Cup fell victim to today's bad weather after police announced it would be called off in the interests of public safety.

The game between Middlesbrough and Arsenal was due to take place at the Riverside stadium this evening.

A spokeswoman for Cleveland Police said: ''A decision has been taken to call off tonight's fixture in the Carling semi-final between Middlesbrough and Arsenal in the interests of public safety.

''The decision was taken at 9.30am today by the safety advisory committee following an examination of the pitch, the stadium access roads, and footpaths.

The game will be played next Tuesday, February 3.

''The pitch, stadium, and approaches were satisfactory at the time of the inspection which was carried out by officers from the local authority, police, club officials, and the match referee.

''However, further snowfalls are predicted during the course of the day and temperatures are expected to plummet below freezing tonight.''