THE Handepay St Helens Triathlon 2018 has been cancelled, organisers have announced.

The Steve Prescott Foundation says the event has been called off due to increased toxin levels at Eccleston Mere following this summer's heatwave.

Long-term roadworks have also created logistical difficulties, the SPF added.

Announcing the cancellation, SPF general manager Martin Blondel, said: "Despite concerted efforts by the BeUrBest and the Steve Prescott Foundation (SPF) organisers to host the 4th Handepay St Helens Triathlon, we are sad to announce the cancellation of the event scheduled for September 9, 2018.

"We have been affected by the extensive period of sunlight at Eccleston Mere which has raised the weed growth and toxin levels across all areas of the Mere making it unsafe to swim.

"As a result the BeUrBest Monday Open Water swim sessions have been cancelled for training and coaching for several weeks.

"It is an unfortunate consequence of nature."

The statement added: "Other options (including Duathlon), have been looked into. Long term road works on key areas of the cycle route make the traffic management a real problem this year.

"We sincerely apologise to all athletes who have been preparing for this prestigious and unique event.

"We will be sending out an email to all who have signed up offering re-imbursement of the registration fee.

"We would like to thank Handepay for the continued support and sponsorship, Pilkingtons Sailing Club for the cooperation and efforts in trying to clear the growth, St Helens Tri Club and SPF members who had volunteered to assist with this year’s event and to all who have signed up or had planned to race."

The St Helens Triathlon was first held in 2015 to realise the late Steve Prescott’s dream for such an event to take place in his hometown - with the day becoming an annual fixture in the town's calendar.