The Head of the River Race has been cancelled due to windy weather conditions forecast for the weekend.

Thousands were expected to descend on Puntey town centre on March 25 to watch around 360 boats and 3,200 rowers take part in the event.

In a statement, organisers said: "The Committee have been monitoring the weather forecast over the last few days and due to the strength and direction of the wind and in light of the difficulties encountered at yesterday’s Schools Head, we have reluctantly taken the decision to cancel this year’s race on the safety grounds.

"We recognise and understand the disappointment that this will cause for all competitors and others due to be involved in the race, however safety simply must come first."

The quarter mile course, which takes around 20 minutes, starts in Mortlake and finishes at Putney Bridge.

Putney has long been associated with rowing and is home to 20 clubs, with this particular race dating back to 1926.

Parking restricitons will no longer in place. 

See related: Council warns parking suspension will be in place as thousands descend on Putney