ATROCIOUS weather forced the postponement of a charity raft race that was due to attract up to 10,000 spectators.

The Bowker Ribble Raft Race -- due to be resurrected for the Bank Holiday weekend after a seven-year absence -- was called off on Thursday because of forecasted high tides and water-logging.

Emergency services and waterways officials inspected the River Ribble and advised organisers, Chorley and Astley Rotary Club, to scrap the race.

All entrants were contacted personally to explain the situation, but it is hoped a new date will be announced shortly.

Organiser Richard Hubberstey said: "It's an absolute nightmare.

"But obviously we didn't want to risk anyone's safety, so hopefully the postponement means we can attract even more entrants as people have more time to enter rafts."

The annual race raises thousands of pounds for both Christie's Hospital in Manchester and Chorley's Derian House Children's Hospice.

More than 100 rafts were due take part and spectators from across Lancashire were looking forward to attending the four-hour long race.

New entries are now welcome and forms can be collected from Bowker BMW showroom on Riversway, Preston, or from 01772 746780.

Full details are also available at www.christies.org/events.html