Rugby and racing off due to wet

The latest winter cold snap is continuing to play havoc with the British sporting calendar - with the Shropshire rugby scene the latest to be hit.

Whitchurch's Midlands Two West trip to Solihull tomorrow was postponed this morning, with the Birmingham club's pitch deemed unplayable and no prospect of improvement in time.

Meanwhile, the racing schedule continues to prove a cause for concern. This afternoon's meeting at Fakenham was called off after a morning inspection with an inch-and-a-half of snow lying on the track.

Tomorrow's meeting at Uttoxeter is subject to a precautionary 8.30am inspection, and they will be looking at Wincanton half an hour earlier than that.

Ascot say they are currently cautiously optimistic of the chances for their big meeting, which features the Betfair Chase.

Prospects of racing at Sedgefield on Sunday rest on the outcome of another inspection at 2.30pm tomorrow afternoon.