Last year's event drew big crowds

The Cliffhanger outdoor festival that was planned for this weekend has been called off.

Torrential rain has wiped out the festival, one of Britain’s biggest gatherings for outdoor enthusiasts.

The event was due to take place in Sheffield tomorrow and Sunday.

Organisers said: “We’re really sorry to announce that the Cliffhanger Festival and Rat Race Basecamp have been cancelled due to the bad weather.

“The British Bouldering Championships are still going ahead in the big top marquee, as are South Yorkshire Orienteers short and park courses, though not the ultrasprint.”

Richard Eyre, head of city centre management and major events for Sheffield City Council, said: “Unfortunately, following all the recent rainfall and the forecast for more heavy rain over the next few days, we have been forced to take the decision to cancel this weekend’s Cliffhanger event at Graves Park.

“However, the British Bouldering Championships will still be going ahead in the big top marquee this weekend.

“We are disappointed to have to make this decision, as we know that many people were looking forward to the event, but staff and public safety must always be our main concern in these cases.”

Matt Heason of Heason Events said: “We appreciate all the kind messages of support about the decision to cancel.

“Ticket holders who bought online will be contacted by RatRace on Monday and Sheffield City Council and Heason Events will be in touch with traders and exhibitors next week.”

He said there are also plans for a music gig in Sheffield this evening with some of the bands who had been due to play over the weekend. Mr Heason said he will post updates on the event’s Facebook page later this afternoon. https://www.facebook.com/heason.events

He added he was planning a brand new indoor festival in Buxton in the heart of the Peak District in October.

The Met Office has issued an amber warning for rain in Yorkshire and the Humber, saying: “Areas of heavy rain will continue to extend north and west across many central and northern parts of England, much of Wales and fringing into south-eastern parts of Northern Ireland, whilst slow moving thundery showers develop across southern parts of England.

“The public should be prepared for the likelihood of surface water flooding and an increasing risk of river flooding, especially in the amber area, leading to disruption to travel and outdoor activities.”

The Environment Agency issued a flood warning for parts of Sheffield shortly before 1pm, meaning flooding is expected and immediate action is necessary.