Keswick have announced the cancellation of their annual New Year’s Day game with Penrith at Davidson Park.
It follows the news a couple of days ago that Penrith’s traditional fixture at Winters Park on Boxing Day had been called off through COVID implications.
Keswick said: “After due consideration of current circumstances and RFU guidance Penrith decided to cancel the traditional Boxing Day fixture between our clubs. This was done with full agreement at Keswick.
“There has been no change in advice from the RFU since that decision was taken and we now approach New Year’s Day and the return fixture.
“As a club we have looked forward to a great day of social rugby as we know that this particular game brings out the best in our sport. It is, therefore, with reluctance, that we have taken the decision to cancel the game.
“Penrith RFC have been informed and like ourselves previously agree with the decision.
“In light of current circumstances around the rapid spread of coronavirus and the difficulty in establishing any sort of social distancing on what is normally a large crowd, we feel this is the responsible thing to do to protect members, staff and visitors as well as the wider community.
“We look forward to resuming our matches in due course and as stated previously we will continue to monitor the situation.”
League rugby is due to return on January 8 when, ironically Keswick are the spare team in North Two West and don’t have a fixture.
