Next year's World Pilot Gig Championships in the Isles of Scilly have been cancelled.

A statement was issued yesterday, confirming that concerns about coronavirus have caused the committee to cancel the championships - for the second year running.

The committee said: "Our cautious optimism of a month ago has evaporated in the light of the current deteriorating situation with regard to Covid-19.

"There is nothing on the horizon which gives us reasonable confidence that the championships can go ahead next year.

"Therefore, it is with great regret that we have decided to cancel WPGC2021."

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The committee go on to say that cancelling now should help teams that were planning on competing.

"We have chosen to announce this now rather than leave a decision until the end of the year (as originally planned) because many competitors and spectators are about to make a financial commitment to secure accommodation and travel arrangements (if they haven’t already done so)."

The organisers ended their statement with some moving words.

​"This has not been an easy decision. We love the Champs. It is wonderful to see the crews from all over the country and abroad having a great time and we know that you love coming here.

"To miss one year is bad enough. To miss two… well, we will stay positive and plan to pick up the pieces when we can. We wish you health and happiness and hope to see you again one day."