WIND gusts greater than 50mph forced Swindon Town to call off their League Two game at home to Scunthorpe United on Saturday just an hour before kick-off.

Storm Dennis didn’t claim any of the other 11 games in League Two, but conditions in and outside the County Ground rapidly deteriorated following the club’s sensible call to postpone its latest fixture.

The club is yet to confirm a re-staging date.

Town manager Richie Wellens stated outside the tunnel that player safety was never an issue for match officials.

Instead, health and safety officers feared loose advertising boards could cause injury to spectators should a sudden gust of wind cause them to void their pitch side positions.

Immediately after the decision was announced by the club, players took to the 4G pitch behind the Arkell’s Stand to complete a light session with Grimsby Town now Swindon’s next opponents on Saturday, February 22.

Wellens said: “It’s nothing to do with player safety, more the sponsorship signs that are loose.

“We had to work on the stadium on Friday and had some cranes in to make sure everything was structurally okay.

“We can’t take any risks, the health and safety of our supporters is paramount.”

A feeling of sympathy must go out to the strong following of Scunthorpe United supporters, many of whom learnt of the news upon their arrival.

But Town goalkeeper Steven Benda was also let down by the weather, his cousins flew over specifically to watch Saturday’s postponed game.

Wellens added: “I feel sorry for Scunthorpe fans, but the weather is a disgrace.

“It’s a shame we couldn’t make the decision that bit earlier to let everyone know, but the bigger picture is that our pitch is in good condition but the game would’ve been a farce.

“The amount of wind would impact the game badly, I saw it happen at the West Bromwich Albion game just before we made the call.

“It’s the best decision for everyone to call it off.”