COLCHESTER United’s home game against Sheffield United has been postponed, following a pitch inspection at the Weston Homes Community Stadium this lunchtime.

Match referee Trevor Kettle travelled down from Rutland to take a look at the pitch, which had been covered in recent days due to the freezing weather.

But he did not take long to make his decision, due to a frozen area on the pitch where the stand casts a shadow.

Referee Mr Kettle said: “I think it was a very easy decision. There is a 20-metre strip across the pitch where the stand casts a shadow, which is really solid.

“With anticipated sub-zero temperatures tonight and tomorrow morning, the probability of the pitch being playable was very low.”

Supporters who had already purchased tickets for tomorrow’s game will be able to use them for the rearranged fixture, on a date to be decided.