An estimated 63,000 people made their way to the start line of the 2026 Great North Run in Newcastle on Sunday morning, where a sundrenched start greeted runners and spectators alike. The atmosphere began building early as participants gathered for the famous half marathon, with ChronicleLive on hand to capture the occasion in a gallery of 33 photos.
Record turnout expected for the half marathon
Since the first Great North Run in 1981, the event has become a highlight for people across the North East and beyond. This year was no different, with many runners already having earned medals from Friday's Great North 5K and the Junior and Mini Runs on Saturday. On Sunday, a record turnout of runners was expected to descend on the Central Motorway in Newcastle to take on the half marathon, many for the first time.
Andy Burnham makes history
Among the participants was Andy Burnham, who became the first ever serving Prime Minister to complete the race. He was joined by a host of well-known faces at the start, including North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, singer Joe McElderry, former Sunderland manager Peter Reid, and football pundit Chris Kamara, who ran alongside This Morning's Ben Shephard.
Photos capture the start line action
The gallery includes shots of runners lining up, eye-catching costumes, and the Red Arrows flying over the start line. Notable images feature Dan Burn and Peter Reid with Brendan Foster, Joe Wicks at the start, and local hero the Big Pink Dress. The photos also show runners supporting charities such as the Chloe & Liam Together Forever Trust and the Charlie & Carter Foundation.
