The Great North Run 2026 saw a host of celebrities take to the start line on Sunday, with Andy Burnham making history as the first serving Prime Minister to complete the famous half marathon.
Burnham, who lined up alongside other famous faces on the Central Motorway in Newcastle, finished the 13.1-mile route in an impressive 1:57:34.
Celebrity runners and notable moments
Among the other runners was South Shields' Joe McElderry, who revealed he only signed up to run for If U Care Share 'about a month ago,' having once completed the Great North Run in 1 hour 30 minutes when he was 19. McElderry also finished in just under two hours this year.
Other celebrities taking part included ex Sunderland manager Peter Reid, former Strictly finalist and Morning Live host Helen Skelton, the cast of The Traitors including series 4 winner Rachel Duffy, and This Morning presenter Ben Shephard with football pundit Chris Kamara, who were both running for Prostate Cancer. Joe Wicks and Jake Quickenden also took part.
Official starter and other attendees
Dan Burn served as this year's official starter, getting the runners underway, while North East Mayor Kim McGuinness was also seen at the start line.
The first big name to do the Great North Run when it started was Kevin Keegan, the late Newcastle legend who passed away in July, causing a stir by running in a half and half Newcastle and Sunderland top while raising a large amount for charity.
