Competition in the English city had been scheduled to be held on June 6 and 7.

"When hosting major events, the welfare and well-being of everyone involved in the event, including athletes, officials, spectators, volunteers and staff is the absolute priority," a statement on the International Triathlon Union's website reads.

"The UK Government’s current advice is to increase social distancing and has suggested that mass gatherings or events that require emergency services provision will not be able to go ahead.

"Therefore, the LOC (Local Organising Committee) has taken the decision of postponing the event.

"The LOC are extremely disappointed for the athletes, who have been training hard and were looking forward to competing in the event, and for the staff and volunteers who have been working tirelessly to deliver an outstanding event.

"However, with the evolution and fast-paced change of the situation regarding COVID-19, this is now the most responsible and best course of action to take."

The LOC are in consultation with relevant authorities and partners to find a suitable date to reschedule the event, with an update set to be provided by April 30.

Participant entries will automatically be transferred to the rescheduled date. 

Those who have grandstand tickets for the event will be contacted directly regarding their purchase.

The coronavirus death toll in the United Kingdom has risen to 104.

National Health Service England said today that a further 33 people had died in England after testing positive.

Confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK increased to 2,626 today, from 1,950 yesterday.