But it was a very different picture on Sunday, September 12 as the finish line for the world’s biggest half marathon moved to Newcastle for this year’s race due to Covid concerns.
It was announced over the summer that 2021’s Great North Run would take a different route for the 40th anniversary staging, with the event returning to Shields “as soon as possible”.
The move, which founder Sir Brendan Foster said was necessary to secure the event’s future, came as a major blow to businesses across South Tyneside.
GNR day is one of the highlights of their calendar, with many relying on the boost such a busy day would bring.
Our photographer visited South Shields to take in the scene on race day.
5. A quiet day
The Great North Run is expected to return to South Shields in 2022 - but it's a quiet one in town this year. Photo: JPIMedia
6. Bike ride
Joe Couch and Wayne Johnson enjoy having a normally busy Redwell Lane all to themselves. Photo: Ian McClelland
8. One man and his dog
David Leonard and his dog Harry enjoy the peace and quiet. Photo: Ian McClelland