A shortage of volunteer marshals has forced Essex and Herts Air Ambulance to cancel its summer cycle ride in Hertfordshire.

It was hoped the fundraising event, on July 1, would raise thousands of pounds for the charity, and organisers had already prepared four routes ranging from three to 80 miles, each starting and finishing at Welwyn Rugby Club.

But events manager Fay Boissieux said organisers had been unable to recruit enough marshals to ensure the safety of those taking part.

She said: "Without enough people, it would be unwise to let the event go ahead. We can only apologise for any inconvenience. Cancelling an event is never something we like to do, but in this case we feel it is our only option.

“We realise that cyclists who have already raised sponsorship may be worried about letting their sponsors down, but we believe most people will be happy to continue with their donation to the Charity.”

Anyone who has entered the event and would like a refund should email events@ehaat.org. Alternatively, they can leave their ticket to be processed as a donation.