ANOTHER major event in East Lothian’s calendar has been cancelled due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Poppyscotland’s Sportive cycling event sees more than 1,000 riders take to the roads around the county and the neighbouring Scottish Borders in September.

The event raises tens of thousands of pounds for the leading Armed Forces charity.

However, the organisers have taken the “difficult decision” to cancel this year’s event.

Gordon Michie, head of fundraising at Poppyscotland, said: “This has been a really difficult decision and one we have not taken lightly, but we feel it is the right course of action.

“There are several key reasons why we have taken this decision, including the ongoing uncertainty regarding mass participation events and when they can safely start again.

“It is imperative that we ensure the safety of our participants, suppliers and volunteers, and we concluded that it would be difficult to keep feeding stations and other facilities at the event clean and managed according to Government guidelines.

“By cancelling the event until next year, we have reduced any potential risk to the communities of East Lothian, the Borders and beyond, as it is imperative that we maintain the strong relationships that we have built with them over the past seven years.”

Organisers have now turned their attention to next year’s event, which will take place on September 26, 2021.

Participants in the 2020 Poppyscotland Sportive will have their place in the event transferred automatically to next year’s event, but are welcome to a refund if they prefer.

Poppyscotland is also asking riders if they would consider doing a ‘virtual Sportive’ – known as the ‘Poppy Cycle Challenge’ – as an alternative.

Details can be found at poppyscotland.org.uk/get-involved/runs-and-challenges/poppy-cycle

This would have been the seventh consecutive year of the Poppyscotland Sportive.

The event has already raised more than £250,000 for the organisation’s work in supporting veterans and their families.

Best known for running the Scottish Poppy Appeal, Poppyscotland reaches out to those who have served, those still serving, and their families at times of crisis and need by offering advice, assistance and funding.

The charity believes that no veteran should live without the prospect of employment, good health and a home, and that everyone has a part to play in achieving this.

To take part in the 2021 Poppyscotland Sportive, or for more information about the cancellation of this year’s event, please contact Poppyscotland’s events team on 0131 557 2782.