Christian Aid events have been postponed or cancelled, and plans for Christian Aid Week scaled back in response to the Coronavirus Covid-19 outbreak.

Among the events to have been put back are the Christian Aid Week book sales in Edinburgh and the bridge crosses that were to have taken place on April 25.

The convener of the largest Sale, at St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, said she hoped the event could be held later in the year. Mary Davidson said: “The Sale organisers have made this decision with profound sadness, not only because of the tragedy that has befallen the world but also because of the adversity we must all face after the years when we have been richly blessed. We very much hope still to be able to hold the 48th annual Sale when we will be delighted to welcome our many friends and supporters”.

The organisers have asked donors to hold onto their books and other items until details about rescheduling are available.

Christian Aid has also said that house-tohouse collections and events for Christian Aid Week (which this year is from May 10-16) such as Big Brekkies will not be able to go ahead. Its latest guidelines state: “We are looking at alternative ways to virtually meet, share and pray with supporters over the coming months in the likely absence of physical church services.

“We are working on alternative plans that will allow people to take part in Christian Aid Week in different, creative ways – by post, by text and online that strengthen our communities during this challenging time. Christian Aid Week is our single-most important fundraiser, so we would welcome your ideas on how we can creatively show love for our neighbours at home and abroad, as a community.”