• Great North Run Cancelled in 40th Year

The Great North Run has been cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

More than 55,000 runners were due to take part in the half-marathon on 13 September, in what would have been its 40th year.

Organisers said they had not taken the decision lightly and had tried to find a way to hold the run - from Newcastle to South Shields - while observing social distancing.

Runners are eligible for refunds or can transfer their entry to next year.