Centuries-old English cheese-rolling competition canceled for overcrowding concerns

London: A 200-year-old English race in which competitors chase round cheeses rolling down a hillside has been canceled this year because of overcrowding concerns.

Organizers say the event in Gloucestershire in southwestern England has become so popular that anticipated crowds have far outgrown the capacity of the location.

The event has been held at Cooper's Hill since at least 1826.

Organizer Jean Jefferies said on Friday that more than 15,000 people tried to attend last year, and some 19 spectators were injured while watching competitors run after - and tumble down - the steep hill in pursuit of a Double Gloucester cheese.

Dozens of people were treated for bruises and sprains at the event each year.