BOURNEMOUTH’S parkrun has been cancelled this weekend over safety concerns.

The popular 5k event was due to take place at Kings Park Athletic Stadium on Saturday at 9am.

The free event attracts hundreds of runners each week and is open to all ages and abilities.

In a statement posted on Facebook organisers said: “Due to the setup of the Bournemouth Marathon Festival half and full marathon, which takes place this Sunday, we have had to make the decision to cancel parkrun this week as we cannot guarantee your safety.

“Despite our best efforts to get in contact with both the organisers and specific council departments, all attempts have failed. As our priority is your safety we feel that we have no choice but to cancel this week’s event.”

Bournemouth's parkrun will return on Saturday, October 13.

Paul Mitchell, sports development manager at Bournemouth council, said: “As far as we aware, we have received no communication from the organiser regarding the concerns. We have tried to speak to the organisers today about this, but unfortunately we have not been able to reach her.

“As far we the council is concerned there is no reason why Parkrun cannot proceed, as normal, and should the organiser wish to discuss this further please don’t hesitate to contact me via the normal channels.”

This Saturday is International Parkrun Day and will mark 14 years since parkrun started.

Weekly parkruns are also held in Poole, Upton House, Moors Valley, Blandford, Lymington and Brockenhurst.

New runners need to register before their first run and take a copy of their barcode with them.

To sign up visit parkrun.org.uk.