The Great North Run was another Resounding Success, Raising an Estimated £28m for Charity!

The Great North Run Europe's biggest half marathon was another fantastic success this year, providing a boost to the local economy and raising an estimated £28m for charity.

The men's race featured one of the most dramatic finishes in the event’s history, which made for an even more outstanding day. 

The race reached a dramatic conclusion when Britain's Olympic hero Mo Farah, the best long distance runner in the world, entered into an epic duel with Ethiopian rival Kenenisa Bekele which saw him pipped at the post. Their dual and their breathtaking sprint finish is sure to be remembered for years to come.

As will the sight of the near 56,000 runners who braved the awful weather forecasts and enhanced the reputation of this remarkable event, which was officially started by World 400m Champion Christine Ohuruogu and England Cricketer Graeme Swann.

David Hart, spokesman for organisers Nova International, said: “It was an incredible day – one of the greatest races in athletics history.

“It had probably the greatest finish of any Great North Run in recent years, the crowd were sensational, and it was a great day for the region and the 56,000 runners involved.

“Thankfully the weather didn’t turn out to be quite as challenging as had been forecast.

“A couple of people have been taken to hospital and are under observation, but overall it was a fantastic day and Nova, as organisers, are very, very proud of how it went.”

The race was not just about the professional athletes though, it boasted a variety of interesting and wonderful characters, from celebrities like former football star turned TV pundit Robbie Savage (alongside referee Graham Poll) and Spice Girl Mel C, to hoardes of fun runners who took part to achieve personal race goals and raise huge amounts of cash for a range of worthy cause.

Ex-premier league footballer Robbie Savage completed the half marathon to raise over £2,500 for the Alzheimer’s Society.

Mr Savage was running in memory of his father Colin who had a less common form of dementia called Pick’s Disease and passed away in March last year, aged 64.

Completing the 13.4 mile run in one hour 58 minutes, Mr Savage said: “I've faced a lot of challenges on the pitch but watching my father and my hero battle against dementia was the biggest of my life.