Premier Rugby has agreed with Sale Sharks and Saracens and also with Newcastle Falcons and Gloucester Rugby, to postpone their Guinness Premiership round 13 matches scheduled to take place this weekend.

The Sale Sharks match had already been moved from its original Friday evening slot to increase the chances of the game being played.

Despite the availability of pitch covers and heaters, existing weather conditions in the North East and North West, coupled with the forecast of more snow and continuing low temperatures, mean both stadia concourses and surrounding areas will be too dangerous for spectators to allow the match to take place.

The Carling Cup match between Manchester City and Manchester United was postponed yesterday for similar reasons.

Phil Winstanley, Rugby Director at PRL said: “All parties have reluctantly agreed that under the circumstances and looking at the weather forecast, postponing the match now is the best option for supporters, players and administrators.

“Snow and ice around Kingston Park and Edgeley Park make it potentially too dangerous for spectators and presents significant concerns for access for the emergency services. Under the expected conditions, it is likely that the match would not gain a safety certificate.

“We have all agreed that an early postponement is the best solution and we will now throw our resources behind the other four Guinness Premiership matches this weekend and hope that we can beat the weather! We will now work with all Clubs to identify an appropriate date for the rearranged fixture.”

Tickets for Sunday's Falcons v Gloucester game will remain valid for the rearranged date, which is yet to be confirmed.