Fourth annual Ride 4 Violet-Grace cancelled due to coronavirus restrictions

Due to the current worldwide COVID-19 pandemic and looking at government guidelines, the event which sees bikers and cyclists travel from the Totally Wicked Stadium to Whiston and Alder Hey Children's Hospital to thank them for trying to save the life of four-year-old Violet-Grace Youens who died on March 25 2017 following a fatal car accident.

The event was launched immediately after her death, as the community came together to commemorate her life and raise funds for her grieving family - it has since become a highlight of the St Heles calendar, and includes a fun day at the stadium in Violet's memory and to thank the hospitals and raise awareness of Organ Donation.

It was scheduled to take place on Sunday, August 28 but Violet's parents Glenn and Becky Youens, and other organisers announced via her charity facebook page Violet-Grace's Gift that this has now been cancelled.

It said: "It is with heavy hearts that all of us here at TeamVG have come to the unanimous decision to cancel this year’s Ride 4 Violet-Grace.

"Due to the current worldwide COVID-19 pandemic and looking at government guidelines, we see no safe way to proceed with the event.

"Stall holders will be sent an email this week and we ask you to please bare with us.

"While we may be unable to come together again this year, we’ve had a few little ideas that we hope you’ll enjoy and will take part in.

"We are currently working on setting up a virtual ‘race’ with Virtual Racing UK (a local St Helens company) in which you will receive a medal upon completion.

"Details will follow in the next few days or so, as soon as every thing is finalised.

"If you’re unable to join the virtual race or maybe don’t want to/can’t go as far (or want to go further), then please do. Obviously social distancing style.

"We would love to see your photos taking part in either."