The race is a milestone event for the region each year – and an emotional one too with many incredible charities being supported by those taking part in the world’s most famous half marathon.
But this year it was made all-the-more poignant by the recent death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away aged 96 on Thursday, September 8.
Crowds were out in force along the race route to spur the runners on their way, with our reporting team also on the scene throughout Sunday.
Take a look at this selection of pictures from Great North Run day.

. GNR KB collage 2 NEP upload.jpg
Well done to the Great North Runners for an incredible day of fundraising and racing. Photo: Kevin Brady

. Runners ready
Big smiles as runners head for the start line on Sunday morning. Photo: North News & Pictures

. Good luck Jasmine!
Rachael Ransbury, left, supporting her daughter Jasmine Trinder alongside Lauren Ransbury. What a great banner! Photo: Georgina Cutler

. You did it!
Nick Warren was taking on the Great North Run for St Oswald's Hospice. Photo: Kevin Brady

. Here we go!
Big smiles ahead of a big run. Participants in high spirits before the Great North Run kicked off on Sunday morning. Photo: North News & Pictures

. Triple threat
The Great North Runners show their colours for a good cause - with thousands of charities represented over the course of a weekend. Photo: North News & Pictures

. Ready to cheer
Angela Llewellyn, Alison Dorrian and Helen Robson were in South Shields to show their support for the runners. Enjoy your day! Photo: Georgina Cutler

. Elite Wheelchair
David Weir was the first wheelchair racer over the finish line at the Great North Run - congratulations David! Photo: Kevin Brady

. The red and white
Michael Palin (not that one) showing his love for Sunderland AFC at the Great North Run. Photo: Kevin Brady

. The girls
Big smiles from Linda, Christine and Jane as they prepare to run for The Brain Tumour Charity. All the best ladies! Photo: North News & Pictures

. Silence
An estimated 60,000 runners pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II by observing a moment of silence at the start line. Photo: North News & Pictures

. Thank you Ma'am
Runners also paid tribute to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II who died this week. Photo: North News & Pictures

. Double trouble
Jacki Murdey and Tom Colquitt, of South Shields Harriers. Well done! Photo: Kevin Brady

. Elite Women
Hellen Obiri was first in the Elite Women's Race. She completed the Great North Run in 01:07:05. Photo: Kevin Brady

. A walk in the park
A big smile from Chris Duke, who is a member of the Sunderland Strollers running group. Photo: Kevin Brady

1. Runners ready
Big smiles as runners head for the start line on Sunday morning. Photo: North News & Pictures

2. Good luck Jasmine!
Rachael Ransbury, left, supporting her daughter Jasmine Trinder alongside Lauren Ransbury. What a great banner! Photo: Georgina Cutler

3. You did it!
Nick Warren was taking on the Great North Run for St Oswald's Hospice. Photo: Kevin Brady

4. Here we go!
Big smiles ahead of a big run. Participants in high spirits before the Great North Run kicked off on Sunday morning. Photo: North News & Pictures