Horrible Histories author Terry Deary speaks of role in Great North Run anniversary film

The Wearside author and actor appeared at the Great North Museum: Hancock on Tuesday, January 14, to mark the launch of the 40th Great North Run.

At the age of 74, Mr Deary has taken part in the event an impressive 21 times.

And once again he will be on the start line of the legendary event as it marks its milestone anniversary.

In the run up to the race, Mr Deary has taken part in the creation of a special film that is set to look at both the history of the Great North Run and its bright future.

Mr Deary, who narrates the film, said: “It is a drama documentary movie which will look back at 40 years of the Great North Run, but it will also look at the way the Great North Run has given consistency.

“The world has changed in 40 years, the Great North Run goes on forever.

"The thing I like about the Great North Run is that every step you take is a step closer to Sunderland.

“The Great North Run is something that introduces people to the North East and we will be talking to some of the people who consistently say ‘wow, I didn't know about this area until I came up for the Great North Run.’

“So there will be some elements of that, but because the movie will go on general cinema release we hope that people around the country who are still not aware of it, will now suddenly become aware.”

The film expected to run for around 70 minutes will be released ahead of the iconic race, but an official date has not yet been confirmed.

It comes after the Great North Run Foundation was awarded a £250,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund grant to create the film to mark the 40th anniversary.

It will focus on the history of the North East over the four decades and the changes the event has witnessed.

On taking part in the run this year Mr Deary said: “This year I am going to enjoy it.

“Every step of the Great North Run is a step further away from Newcastle, so I love it for that reason.”