The final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park has been postponed.
Saturday’s 245th meeting between Everton and Liverpool was originally set to take place at 12.30pm before the onset of Storm Darragh across the UK.
An Amber warning had been issued for the North West due to forecast winds of between 60mph and 70mph in the region for large parts of the weekend.
The decision to defer the Premier League clash was taken after a Safety Advisory Group meeting between key stakeholders at Goodison itself.
Officials from both clubs, Merseyside Police and Liverpool City Council concluded that the safety risk posed meant the game’s postponement.
“Whilst we appreciate this will be deeply disappointing for supporters, the safety of fans, staff and players is of paramount importance,” read an Everton statement.
“Information relating to a rearranged date for the fixture will be announced in due course.
“All tickets purchased for the original fixture will remain valid for the rearranged fixture.”
Food prepared to cater for the game’s sell-out crowd has been redistributed to foodbanks and good causes with the help of Fans Supporting Foodbanks.