There will be no Women’s U18 World Championship event in Dumfries this season after the Division 2A tournament was one of ten cancelled by the IIHF.

However, Ice Hockey UK and Dumfries and Galloway Council say they remain committed to international ice hockey returning to Scotland in the future.

Great Britain were set to play on home ice for the second time in three years, with Dumfries scheduled to host the competition in January.

However, the IIHF Council has voted to cancel ten tournaments between December and February, a period which includes the GB Men U20’s trip to Romania.

Ice Hockey UK general secretary, Andy French, said: “Everyone understands this decision but it doesn’t make it any less disappointing.

“We were looking forward to working with Dumfries and Galloway Council, as well as the Dumfries Ice Bowl, on another international tournament.

“The IIHF have made the right call in cancelling these tournaments early, so everyone is fully aware of the situation.

“International ice hockey will return to the UK that is for sure. We have a great track record of hosting tournaments, especially in Dumfries, and we plan to bid for many more in the coming years.”

Dumfries and Galloway Council events champion, councillor Adam Wilson, added: “The cancellation of this championship event is, of course, disappointing for our region. However, public health protection must come first.

“We support the decision of IIHF and we look forward to working with them and Ice Hockey UK to bring ice hockey events to our region and Dumfries Ice Bowl in the near future.”

(Image permission: Helen Hobbins Photography)