Coronavirus: Jim Clark Rally 2020 cancelled

The organisers of the Jim Clark Rally in the Scottish Borders have cancelled this year's event due to the coronavirus pandemic.

It was scheduled to take place over the weekend of 29-31 May 2020, but has since been called off following government advice.

Scotland has banned mass gatherings of more than 500 people to ease pressure on the NHS rather than as an effective way of delaying the spread of Covid-19.

2020 was to be the second year the rally has gone ahead after a four-year break.

In a statement, John Fife, on behalf of the Jim Clark Memorial Motor Club, said: "As we know only too well, sporting events attract more than just competitors. They need dozens of Officials, Marshals, Paramedic and Recovery crews as well as attracting thousands of spectators.

"On that basis, the current Government and medical advice is that such events should be cancelled. Despite all that, this was an easy decision to take - the public's health comes first.

The statement continues: "We all face difficult times ahead, but rally fans can rest assured that the enthusiastic team behind the annual Jim Clark Rally will not be idle over the coming weeks.

"Plans for this year's proposed event were already well underway with a new stage being added to the established favourites.

"This work will not be wasted as attention turns now to 2021."