A POPULAR yacht race had to be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.

West Mersea Yacht Club cancelled its round the island race on Sunday due to high winds.

The decision was made as it was believed some boats would struggle with wind speeds expected to reach in excess of 20 knots.

A spokesman for West Mersea Yacht Club said: "We have been closely monitoring the expected conditions for the last 48 hours and whilst for a number of participants these are perfect conditions, we are required to consider all.

"We appreciate that a percentage of our entries would be able to complete a circumnavigation, however with the early starters there is an expectation of gusts in excess of 20 knots which would create issues for some competitors, and the safety cover and radio boats."

The decision was made on Saturday to try and avoid competitors paying for travel costs. Racers will receive 90 percent of their entry fee as a refund.

The spokesman continued: "The organising authority will take action over the next seven days to ensure that competitors receive the refunded fee.

"Once again our sincere apologies to all entrants but the safety of both volunteers and competitors has to be our primary concern."