TODAY’S Great North Swim events have had to be called off due to the weather conditions.

Great Swim abandoned today’s planned events due to ‘strong gusting winds’.

Announcing the news last night, organisers said Friday’s day of events had been ‘challenging’ in the conditions and that today’s forecast is for ‘even stronger’ winds.

Sunday’s events are expected to go ahead as planned.

“Unfortunately, the swim events scheduled for Saturday 11 June have been cancelled due to very strong gusting winds which are unsuitable for open water swimming,” a spokesman said.

“All participants have been sent an email with more information. We understand this will be disappointing news, but the safety and well-being of our participants is our number one priority.

“The Sunday programme of events is scheduled to go ahead as planned given the weather forecast predicting a reduction in the winds.

“We are monitoring the conditions and will communicate any changes to the planned schedule of events.”