A POPULAR traditional event has been cancelled due to the coronavirus crisis.

The World Black Pudding Lobbing Championships, which takes place in Ramsbottom annually, has been axed as organisers could not find a way of holding the event safely amid the social distancing restrictions.

The contest was due to be held on Sunday, September 13 but fans will have to wait until next year before they get the chance to see a black pudding thrown competitively.

In an announcement made on social media, organisers said: "Sadly, we're unable to hold the 2020 World Black Pudding Lobbing Championships this year.

"Safety has to come first and despite racking our brains we just couldn't come up with a way for the event take place while following all the guidance.

"For sure 2020 has been a strange year, one that no doubt we'll all be glad to see the back of, but we hope we'll see you all next year in Ramsbottom for the 2021 Championships."