TODAY'S race meeting at Catterick has been abandoned because of the weather, racecourse bosses have confirmed.

The first race of the day was due to get under way at 1.10pm, with the decision to cancel made earlier this morning.

It is feared the lost day's racing may cost the course thousands in missed income and costs that will still need to be honoured.

General manager and clerk of the course Fiona Needham said: "With high winds, it is never as clear-cut as with something like frost, when we often have an idea quite far in advance that we will need to abandon.

"First thing this morning, the wind was not too bad, but it has been steadily increasing, and sooner than was forecasted.

"We have had a lot of phone calls and took the decision to abandon as soon as practically possible."

The next meeting at the course will be on Valentine's Day, with the first race at 2.20pm.

Mrs Needham said: "It is the worst possible thing, to have to abandon at any time.

"This close to the start of racing, we incur all of the costs associated with holding a meeting, but none of the income.

"But it is just one of those things, it would not have been safe to go ahead.

"We just have to keep our fingers crossed for better weather on Valentine's Day."

:: For more information about upcoming meetings, visit catterickbridge.co.uk