The Great North Run 5K has been cancelled following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, bosses have confirmed.

The 5K event, which was due to take place on Friday evening (September 9) has been called off following the news that Her Majesty passed away on Thursday afternoon.

Whether the full half marathon on Sunday will go ahead is also now in doubt with organisers saying they will provide an update tomorrow.

Read more: The Queen has died aged 96 Buckingham Palace has announced

In a statement released shortly after 8pm on Thursday evening the Great North Run company said: “We are deeply saddened by the news of the death of Her Majesty the Queen.

“We offer our heartfelt condolences to the Royal family.

“In light of this sad news, we have taken the decision to cancel the Great North 5k on Friday evening.

“We will continue to assess plans for the weekend and provide a further update tomorrow morning.”

More than 60,000 people are signed up to take part in the half marathon on Sunday morning.

Other sporting events may also be cancelled in the coming days as the nation mourns the long-serving monarch.

The English Football League said consideration would be made regarding its fixtures at the earliest opportunity after discussions with the Government and the wider sport sector.

Tributes poured in from sports governing bodies and personalities, and the England and Wales Cricket Board announced the second day’s play in the men’s Test match between England and South Africa had been cancelled.