Oxfam Cancels Trailwalker Amid Protest Disruption

One of Hong Kong's biggest annual charity events, the Oxfam Trailwalker, has been cancelled after organisers said they would be unable to guarantee the safety of the 10,000 participants.

The epic annual charity walk, which sees participants slog across a 100 kilometre route from Sai Kung to Tuen Mun, taking in some of Hong Kong's tallest peaks, has raised hundreds of millions of dollars over the years. It had been due to take place from Friday until Sunday.

In a post on the event's Facebook page, organisers said the decision was taken to ensure the safety of walkers, volunteers and support teams.

"Everyone involved in the Oxfam Trailwalker has always adopted an attitude of perseverance and steadfast determination," they wrote.

"We understand that all teams have put a lot of time and effort into training and preparing for the event. Like all of you, we have also been working tirelessly with various parties to prepare for the event to ensure it is run as smoothly and safely as possible."

Teams will be given the option of a refund on their entry fees and sponsorship or a guaranteed place in next year's event. Trailwalker had taken place every year since 1983.