Great North Run set to raise millions for charity

Sixty-thousand people are expected to take part in this year's Great North Run, though there will be some changes to the World's Biggest Half Marathon, which sees people running from Newcastle to South Shields.

Organisers say the race - which is expected to raise £25m this year, for hundreds of charities all over the world - will be a fitting tribute to the life and work of the Queen.

The message, from the Great Run Company, states "The event has traditionally been a celebration of the extraordinary achievements of ordinary people, this year it will be an opportunity for us to come together and express our condolences, while celebrating the life of our extraordinary Queen.

"The thousands of runners taking part are expected to raise an estimated £25 million pounds in much needed charitable donations, a fitting tribute to the Queen, who lived her life in the service of our country and its people.

"Elements of the runner and spectator experience will be more subdued out of respect to the Royal Family. Whilst we want runners to enjoy the day, we will be encouraging everyone to be mindful of the very sad and very special circumstances in which the event will be taking place, and encourage them to communicate their respect in whichever way they feel appropriate."

Throughout the day, we'll be speaking to some of the people running for hundreds of amazing charities all over the world.

People were seen gathering and warming up at the start line since just before 9am this morning.

The first wave of racers began crossing the start line from 10:15, led by Commonwealth 10,000 metres champion Eilish McColgan.

The Winners of the Elite Women and Elite Men's races have been announced as two-time Olympic 5000 metres silver medallist Hellen Obiri and 2020 Half Marathon World Champion Jacob Kiplimo.

As always with the event, there are lots of road closures across the North East today - you can find out exactly which ones are closed, and when, below.

READ MORE: Road Closures 2022

Photos from this year's Great North Run:

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• Great North Run
• Newcastle
• North East
• South Shields