COVID19: Tandragee 100 is off
One of Northern Ireland's best known motorcycling events, the Tandragee 100, has been cancelled this year due to the ongoing covid pandemic.
The race was scheduled for April 30 and May 1.
But in a statement last night, organisers said safety had to come first.
Last year's event - to mark the 60th anniversary - had already been postponed.
Organisers are appealing to fans to stay safe and "act with compassion towards each other."
"It is important not only to consider the safety of our volunteers and officials, local residents and landowners, local businesses, the competitors and of course our spectators but also the wider general public," the statement added.
"If we are to collectively delay the spread of the disease, ‘flatten the curve’ and ultimatelyreduce the impact Covid 19 will have in the longer term we believe to gather in large numbers for our event is not appropriate given the circumstances.
"At a time when our Health & Social Care Services are putting plans in place to manage increased demand we must not place an additional strain on their precious resources.
"Many of our event medical team and first aiders will be needed to contribute to the HSC response across Northern Ireland and we also would not wish to potentially divert HSC ambulance and hospital resources to deal with any event related requirements.
"To all those involved in the response to covid 19 we thank you.
"As a Club we are of course disappointed to have to take this decision to postpone our 60th Anniversary Celebrations.
"However, it is the right thing to do.
"We believe it is important to let everyone involved know at the earliest opportunity, so they can make alternative arrangements or possibly transfer any bookings which they may have made.
"We would also like to take this opportunity to thank our loyal sponsors for their understanding and support.
"We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this announcement causes.
Our message to everyone is to put your health first, don’t take any unnecessary risks. Keep up to date with and follow the advice given by the Public Health Agency. Think about the vulnerable in our society and act with compassion towards each other."