THE WESSEX League have temporarily suspended handshakes amidst coronavirus fears.

the league released a statement saying they are suspending handshakes following guidance from the Public Health Authorities.

These include handshakes pre-match, during the toss of the coin prior to kick-off, and after the match.

The suspension affects tonight's all-Dorset clash between Hamworthy United and Christchurch.

Hamworthy tweeted saying that the Wessex League, following guidance from Public Health Authorities, has temporarily suspended the sporting gesture “until further notice”.

As of Tuesday, March 3, there were 51 confirmed cases of the virus in the UK.

The Department of Health and Social Care released guidance on how to protect yourself from the virus.

They said to wash hands regularly with soap or hand sanitiser, catch coughs and sneezes with a tissue, and if you have arrived back from specified areas then check the traveller advice.

So far, there has been no confirmed coronavirus cases in Dorset.