The Fal River Walk suffered its first washout in eight years on Sunday after torrential showers made the paths around the Roseland too dangerous.

The day started well with more than 150 walkers setting off from Ponsharden to Mylor. Local MP Sarah Newton was present to see some on their way and participants were in good spirits despite the forecast.

However, as walkers reached Mylor many had to take shelter from very heavy rain while waiting the ferries to take them to Place.

Meanwhile, the Truro Boscawen Rotary team arrived at Place Manor to set up the finish to find the area waterlogged. Marshals reported serious problems with many parts of the route with treacherous paths and the difficult decision to cancel the second half of the walk was made.

The Rotary Club’s Chris Veal apologised to walkers for not being able to stage the whole walk. “We had to act in the interest of safety for all walkers by cancelling,” he said. “This is the first time in eight years. We are a hardy lot in Cornwall and although many walkers would have been prepared to brave the rain and conditions we had to act for the all of the group.

“We hope sponsors will continue to support walkers for our two major charities BF Adventure and Shelterbox.