A MAJOR annual race in the Wee County has officially been postponed to next March due to coronavirus.

Alloa Half Marathon, one of the largest fundraising events organised by Alloa Round Table, is hoped to return on March 28 in 2021.

In a video to runners who registered for the event, race director John O'Malley last week explained it is becoming more and more likely that some form of social distancing will still be in place come September 27.

The annual race was originally rescheduled for that date after the coronavirus outbreak ruined original plans for this March.

In the video, John gave thanks to all the local volunteers who have been lending a hand for years, many going unnoticed.

Speaking of the race, he said: "We explored numerous options on how to put on and ensure that there is a safe race for not only you the runner, but the volunteers and also the spectators that come out to support us every year.

"Looking at all the options available to us it has to be that we've taken the extremely difficult decision to postpone the race yet again this year and move it all the way to March 28, 2021.

"While this is disappointing news, and it's just as disappointing to even deliver this news, I wanted to make sure that myself and the Round Table work hard to make sure we offered our runners options with regards to refunds."

To that end, those who already registered can do one of four things.

They can opt to run a virtual race, sending the Round Table evidence and receiving a medal and T-shirt while the accomplishment would be highlighted on social media.

Runners may also defer their registration to next year.

As a third option, people can ask for a partial refund of £14 and receive a medal and T-shirt.

Alternatively, those who have already entered can ask for a full refund.

However, people are being kindly asked to keep in mind the race is a charitable event and is a major fundraiser for the Round Table which puts the money toward supporting worthy local causes and individuals – as reported elsewhere in the Advertiser today.

And with some planning already undertaken for this year's race, in some cases twice, the organisers already incurred some costs, around £10.70 per runner.

John added: "We understand that this is a difficult time financially for most people; however, we'd like to keep you entry fee and donate it to local good causes and charities."

Follow Alloa Round Table on Facebook to see how the money is put to good use.