Since its debut event in 1981, the Great North Run has been a key event in the North East calendar.
This year’s edition marks the 43rd edition of the race, after the 2020 edition of the race was cancelled due to the Covid 19 pandemic.
The first Great North Run was staged on June 28 1981, when 12,000 runners participated. By 2003, the number of participants had risen to 47,000 and we now see 60,000 runners make the iconic pilgrimage from Newcastle, through Gateshead and South Tyneside to the coastline at South Shields.
Devised by elite athlete and Hebburn local Brendan Foster, the Great North Run has rasied millions of pounds for charities across the North East and beyond, something which we will see more of in 2024 as another group of runners take part.
The 2024 Great North Run will take place on Sunday, September 8. The race will get underway at 10:55 with the BBC One coverage starting from 10am.
5. 2023
Sir Mo Farah greets fans after completing the Men's Elite Race of the Great North Run 2023. Last year was the iconic runner's last race as a pro. | Photo by Owen Humphreys/PA Wire Photo: Owen Humphreys
7. 2008
The Red Arrows, a huge part of most race days, fly over the Great North Run crossing the Tyne Bridge in 2008. The acrobatic team will not be making an appearance in 2024. | David Ashdown/Getty Images
8. 1999
In 1999, British runner Paula Radcliffe could be seen in action at the Great North Run. Radcliffe finished in third place this year. | Stu Forster Photo: Stu Forster