Carlisle Rugby Club has abandoned plans for a repeat of last year’s successful Border City Sevens.

The second event had been planned for June but in view of developments over the coronavirus it has been cancelled three months in advance.

A club statement said: “Regretfully we have decided that in view of the advice issued by the Government and the RFU, and uncertainty around dates for resumption of mass gatherings, we have no option but to cancel this year's event in June.

“Although a considerable amount of planning had already been undertaken, we could not afford to commit further significant resources both of time and finance, with the possibility of the event not being able to take place.

“This is deeply disappointing but the club is resolved to restore the event in 2021.”

All rugby union, from senior level to the youngest age group, has been suspended across the country until April 14 - although likely to be much longer.

Teams from the North East, Scotland, Lancashire and Cumbria were all involved, competing for the Border City Sevens Trophy and Plate.