THE World Para Swimming Championships, at which Corsham Paralympic gold medallist Stephanie Millward was due to compete later this month, have been postponed by the International Paralympic Committee following yesterday's fatal earthquake in Mexico.

The event - and the World Para Powerlifting Championships - were due to start in Mexico City on September 30, but they have now been delayed for an unspecified period of time after the 7.1 magnitude quake left hundreds dead and caused major damage to buildings and infrastructure.

IPC president Andrew Parsons told paralympic.org: "As a result of this tragedy, we are in full agreement that the immediate focus of the Mexican authorities should be on prioritising recovery and rebuilding for the Mexican people and not organising two major international sport events.

"I know the postponement of both Championships will be disappointing news to all the athletes who were set to take part, however these are unique circumstances and quite simply this is the right thing to do at the moment."