The organisers of York's inaugural duck race have been forced to cancel the event due to the continuing high river levels.

The event had been organised on behalf of Martin House Hospice, and was being supported by City of York Council as part of the Festival of the Rivers. It was initially due to take place on 1 July and was later postponed until 29 July. However, organisers have been forced to cancel the event over health and safety fears.

Liz Topi, the council's events officer, said: "We're all so disappointed that the race has had to be cancelled, especially after all the hard work's that gone in to it. It's particularly sad for the charity that stood to receive donations from the event - Martin House Hospice - which does such good work in the York area."

Anyone who has bought a duck will be contacted by Martin House Hospice to see if they would still like to make a donation, or whether they would like their money back.

If anyone has any queries about the event they should call Liz Topi on 554253.