The 29th Bermuda End-to-End is set to be an “outdoor adventure” for thousands of participants today.

While yesterday’s swim was postponed and today’s cycling portion was cancelled because of bad weather, walkers are still in for a “different but special” treat. “Our team is ready to deliver an outstanding event come rain or shine,” Anne Mello, chairwoman of the End-to-End Charitable Trust, said. “It’s going to be different but special at the same time.

“We’re a hardy lot. We’re used to good weather and bad weather so walking tomorrow should be an outdoor adventure.”

Ms Mello added that there will be enthusiastic volunteers manning the water stops along the route.

“They’ll be ready to send you on your way with a drink and some fun surprises. And our dedicated road marshals will help you find your way across the island safely.

“We also have excellent support from Marine and Ports for the ferry ride to get you home safely,” she added. It had been estimated that as many as 1,000 cyclists planned to take part, but with more rain forecast for this morning, cycling was considered too dangerous.

Ms Mello said: “We’ve been planning this event for an entire year and anticipating it as much as our participants. However, the current weather conditions and tomorrow’s morning predictions have led us to conclude that it would be unsafe to ask people to cycle on wet, slick roads.”

The 8.30am cycle ferry service from Hamilton to St George’s was also cancelled but tickets can be saved and used for next year’s event.

Participants who signed up for the cycling have instead been urged to take part in the walk and can join the event anywhere on the route, any time of the day. Buses for walkers will leave Hamilton at 6.15am for a 7am start in St George’s.

The Middle-to-End Walk starts at 10am from Albouy’s Point and the Fun Walk will begin at 2pm at Beacon Hill in Somerset. Finish support in Dockyard will end at 5pm.

Meanwhile, the End-to-End swim is now set to take place on Friday from the Hamilton Princess at 5pm.

The Bermuda Weather Service cancelled its severe weather watch yesterday morning but a small craft warning remains in place until this evening.

A thunderstorm advisory is active until this afternoon. Gusts are to reach near gale force at times, with widespread rain and showers and risk of thunderstorms. A frontal system is expected to push through to the island’s east this evening, with easing winds and drying weather arriving tomorrow.