The national governing body warned there would be a "reduction in the organisation’s staff headcount".

British newspaper The Times reported as much as 25 per cent of UK Athletics' administration could be facing redundancy.

UK Athletics chief executive Joanna Coates admitted the news would be "difficult" for those affected, but stressed the job cuts were necessary during a time of financial uncertainty for the organisation.

The body has been deprived of income because of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the two Diamond League events in Britain that had been due to take place this year - in London and Gateshead - both cancelled.

UK Athletics has also not yet secured a new television deal with the BBC, worth more than £2 million ($2.5 million/€2.1 million) a year to the organisation, and talks appear to have stalled.

"This announcement is difficult news for some but also essential for the health of the sport moving forwards," said Coates.

"There are a number of factors that have meant we need to reduce our head count, not being able to stage our biggest events this summer will obviously have had a significant financial impact as will the changing face of our broadcast arrangements.

"But it’s important to note that regardless of these issues the business would still have seen a lot of changes take place at this time. 

"As a sport we are rebuilding, and I have often used the term needing a 'rewire'. 

"While change can be incredibly difficult, it is also an opportunity for us to ensure we are a healthy governing body, with a long-term strategy delivering successfully through to 2032.

"We have a new approach, putting the athletes first and a strategy that will see us putting the athletics family at the heart of what we do. 

"Today is another step towards realising that goal."