BRITISH point-to-point racing has been shut down for the 2019-20 season because of the coronavirus outbreak.

The move was confirmed in a statement by the Point-to-Point Authority on Tuesday, shortly before the British Horseracing Authority announced all racing under rules will be cancelled until the end of next month for the same reason.

In a press conference on Monday night, Prime Minister Boris Johnson spelled out stringent measures to be put in place on restriction of travel and use of emergency services – a change of Government policy which has had swift and wide-ranging consequences, forcing the cancellation of many remaining sports events.

The PPA statement read: “This is a formal announcement to confirm that the British point-to-point season is closed for this season.

“This was a very difficult decision to make, recognising that many people’s livelihoods are involved.

“However, the Prime Minister’s words last night made clear that everyone should minimise social contact and non-essential travel.

“Furthermore, our sport creates some medical burden, both on the course and potentially at the hospitals, where it would be unwelcome under the current circumstances.”

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