SUFFOLK'S Great East Swim has been postponed, organisers have today confirmed.

Forecasts of strong and gusty winds has caused the swimming extravaganza to be put back 24 hours to Sunday.

The swim, at Alton Water near Ipswich, has attracted around 3,000 participants.

Alex Jackson, of organisers Nova International, said: 'We are sorry to delay the event by 24 hours and fully understand the inconvenience this will cause, but the safety and well-being of our participants will always be our number one priority.'

Mr Jackson added those who have signed up will be offered a full refund of their entry fee if they are unable to participate.

'He said the wind was expected to ease by Sunday and that a full programme of events would be replicated then.'