Last updated 15:30, Thursday, 26 June 2008

TORRENTIAL rain and gale force winds wrecked last weekend’s sporting programme in Tynedale.

The biggest casualty of the weather was Ladies’ Day at Hexham Racecourse on Sunday.

A large crowd gathered at Yarridge ahead of a six-race card in aid of the Charlie Bear For Cancer Care charity. Ladies had dressed at their very best for the occasion.

However, high winds before the first race prompted an inspection of the track just as the horses for the opener were in the parade ring.

Course officials were joined by jockey representatives to assess the situation. And to the disappointment of the crowd it was decided to abandon the meeting.

In certain parts of the track, gusts of around 40mph were recorded, making the conditions too risky for jump racing.

An option to delay the first race was ruled out because of a forecast that winds would not peak until mid-afternoon.

Race-goers will have to wait until October 3 for the resumption of racing at Hexham after the summer break.

Saturday’s cricket programme was ruined by heavy rain.

All matches in the Wellstream Northumberland & Tyneside Cricket League, including Tynedale’s visit to Newcastle City, were washed out.

Only Stocksfield’s game at Alnmouth survived the rain in the Three Counties Northumberland League Premier Division. But the players had to call a halt to proceedings after Stocksfield reached 59-1 in 16 overs.