Hundreds turned out for a popular charity race that returned after a two-year break due to the pandemic.
More than 450 people headed to Newcastle's Quayside for the 19th Sunshine Run on Wednesday, helping to raise money for The Chronicle's Sunshine Fund, which provides life-changing equipment for youngsters with disabilities in the North East.
There were three waves for participants, including a new 3K youth event for 13 to 18 year olds, a 5K Elite wave for club and competitive runners and the charity's iconic 5K fun run.
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Club runners from across the region joined the race including Ashington Hirst Running Club, Prudhoe and South Shields Harriers. But it was Tyne Bridge Harriers who took the male and female top spot in the Elite 5K wave.
In addition, a host of fun runners, including corporate teams from sponsors Stagecoach and the Winn Group entered the event.
Stephen Miller, charity patron and Paralympian, was at the start line and sounded the horn to set the runners off.
Siobhan Sargeant, charity director, said: "What a comeback that was. The last Sunshine Run we had was back in 2019, so we've been building up to this event for quite some time now and it certainly didn't disappoint. We are overwhelmed with how many people took part, donated, volunteered and supported the event in any way they could.
"We have to say a mammoth thank you to our wonderful event sponsors, Stagecoach, plus Sean, Jon and Carl from the Slatyford depot for supporting on the night. Stagecoach are part of the Sunshine family and we have loved sharing this experience with them and celebrating the return of the event.
"There are so many others to thank who donated their time including our charity patron Stephen Miller who sounded the starting horn, our trusty photographer Jeanette from The Bigger picture, the amazing team from The Gym Groups across the North East, especially Simone who warmed up our runners without even breaking a sweat, the legends from the 99th Garrison for providing some Star Wars magic, Accenture and Northumbria Police Cadets for volunteering on the day, Gateshead Harriers' Tony Gardner ad his fabulous route marshals and finally Urban Garden for giving us use of their glorious space on the Quayside.
"Also, a huge thanks to our host Anna Foster, the North Tyneside Steel Band and Excel Medical for contributing to a fantastic evening."
To support the Sunshine Fund, you can make a donation online here. The website also has information about other ways to donate.
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