The Stirling Scottish Marathon has been postponed due to coronavirus after 'careful consideration'.

The marathon was due to take place on the weekend of October 10th and 11th this year, however due to the coronavirus pandemic it has been rescheduled until May 2021.

Stirling Scottish Marathon, which offers participants 'a run through history' as it takes runners across the city, will now commence on May 8th and 9th 2021.

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An email sent to the runners said:

"During the lockdown period we have been closely monitoring all advice and guidelines being given by the Scottish Government."

"In assessing all current available information it is our view that there is a very high risk that social distancing restrictions for mass gatherings will extend into the summer and autumn months."

"If this is the case it will severely impact our ability to organise and deliver the world class marathon that we promised."

"All of our team are bitterly disappointed having to make this decision  but the welfare of our runners, colleagues, volunteers and suppliers is paramount."

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"Given the risk we decided an early decision would be in the best interests of all runners as many have already made travel and accommodation arrangements for the weekend in October."

"All entries for the October 10th and 11th dates will be deferred to the new dates in May 2021."

"While we hope you will join us in 2021 and support the re-arranged event, plus all the charities involved,  any runner unable to take part on the new date can request a refund."

"We would like to thank our charity partners, sponsors, Stirling Council and all our key stakeholders for their understanding and support on this matter."

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"We appreciate that you have been training hard in readiness for the Stirling Marathon weekend but we look forward to seeing you, and many new participants, on the start line next spring when the world will undoubtedly be a safer place."

In the past it has attracted Olympic athletes, Scottish celebrities, and even Outlander star Sam Heughan to the start line.

Entries for the 2021 event are now open at thestirlingmarathon.co.uk