Great South Run cancelled amid safety concerns as Storm Ashley set to hit UK shores

Runners who have been training for months ahead of the Great South Run have received an email this morning, informing them that the event will no longer be going ahead.

It comes amid safety concerns about the impact of Storm Ashley, with rain and high-speed winds forecast for tomorrow’s (October 20) event.

The Great South Run, held in Portsmouth each year, takes runners along the seafront, through Old Portsmouth and the Historic Dockyard, before heading up towards the city centre, through Southsea and back along the promenade to the finish line.

The email said: “We’re really sorry to confirm that this year’s Great South Run has been cancelled due to forecasted high winds and rain. We’ve been closely monitoring the weather conditions and unfortunately they haven’t improved to a point where we can safely stage Sunday’s event.

“The forecasted winds and gusts compromise our event infrastructure, including our medical facilities at the finish and around the course. This combined with high tide levels, potential debris, and the exposure along the seafront mean that we can’t guarantee the safe delivery of the event.

“We haven’t taken this decision lightly and have been liaising closely with the Met Office, medical and safety teams, local authorities and key stakeholders throughout the week to make the best informed decision.

“We know how disappointing this is and we hope you can understand why this decision has been made. Thank you for your patience and understanding.”

Further information about entries and other information will be provided to participants within the next week, the email added.