• Carling Cup semi-final postponed because of bad weather
• No decision yet taken on Manchester derby tomorrow

Blackburn have confirmed that tonight’s Carling Cup semi-final first leg against Aston Villa has been postponed because of bad weather. The decision was taken in conjunction with the Police Match Commander on the grounds of public safety and following consultation with the Football League.

The club said on its website this morning: “It is still snowing heavily in Blackburn, as it has been all morning, and advice locally is not to travel unless it is absolutely necessary and in addition severe weather warnings have being issued throughout the country. The weather forecast for the day states that we can expect more snow and freezing temperatures in Lancashire and that heavy snow is expected in the Midlands later in the day and will continue throughout the evening and early hours of Wednesday morning.

“Whilst the Ewood Park pitch is playable we believe it would be unadvisable to expect fans, staff etc to attempt to get to the match. Even if fans are able to get to Ewood Park we would not like to speculate on what type of journey home they may face at 10.00pm tonight when temperatures will be sub-zero.

“Further information concerning rearrangement of the fixture will follow in due course. Match tickets will be valid for the rearranged fixture but fans who have purchased tickets and are unable to attend on the new date, can obtain a refund by applying to the ticket office in advance of the fixture.”

Stoke’s Premier League game against Fulham could also be in danger of being called off. A statement on Stoke’s website said: “While the pitch itself is in good condition, staff are currently working to keep all the major approaches to the stadium clear of any snow and ice. The club are, however, aware of the forecast of snow late in the day and are keeping a close eye on bad weather affecting the north of the region.”

Manchester City, meanwhile, have been forced to close their ticket office and city centre shop due to the conditions. There is no indication yet whether tomorrow’s game against Manchester United will go ahead or not and tickets for the match are still available online.

A rugby league friendly between Leigh and Super League side Salford, originally scheduled for December 27 but rearranged for tonight, has also been called off.

Carling CupBlackburn RoversAston VillaWeatherMarcus Christensonguardian.co.uk