Staffordshire's Ironman event pushed back a month due to Covid-19 restrictions

Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire had been due to take place in June this year, after last year's event was cancelled due to the virus.

But it will now take place on July 18 this year instead – with the date pushed back to coincide with further restrictions being eased.

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Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire race director Rebecca Sutherland said: "Please know that we remain just as focused on creating an exceptional race in the future.

"Our team will continue to work hard developing and refining operational plans in a manner consistent with local community objectives and within the guidelines and recommendations set by public health entities as it relates to Covid-19 and England’s road-map out of lockdown.

"We thank our athletes for their continued understanding and look forward to returning with a great event later this year."

Suitable

Ironman has been working with the Staffordshire County Council and Stafford Borough Council and other organisations to determine the most suitable date – with chiefs saying the event will be better positioned in July.

Staffordshire County Council’s deputy chief executive and director for families and communities Helen Riley said: "It’s great news that Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire will be returning to the county after last year’s absence.

"Having an event like this in the calendar as we move out of pandemic restrictions really gives competitors, spectators and our local businesses something to look forward to.

"It gives us an opportunity to showcase Staffordshire to visitors from across the UK and internationally; including our country parks, outstanding countryside and the county town.

"While we understand there must be a cautious approach to large events this summer, we remain confident that people will be able to enjoy Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire in July.”

For more information visit ironman.com/im703-staffordshire