NEXT weekend's St David's Hospice dragon boat race has been postponed because of the persistent heavy rain and poor forecast.

The popular event was due to take place on the River Wye at Monmouth on Saturday, June 16, but has now been called-off because of safety fears.

It is now likely to take place on Sunday, September 9, with St David's director of fundraising Kris Broome saying it with "deep regret" the last minute decision was made.

He said: “We’ve had advice from the water and environmental authorities that it would be unsafe if we went ahead due to the excess rain we have had over the past few weeks and with more forecast for the end of this week."

Mr Broome added that the new date of Sunday, September 9 should be confirmed by the end of this week.

Teams will be refunded the £25 entry fee if they are unable to take part in the re-arranged date for the Dragon Boat Race. For further information, call Kris Broome 01633 851051 or email kris.broome@stdavidshospice.org