09 September 2024 , 15:20
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A 29-year-old man has died after he collapsed during yesterday’s Great North Run.
The race had to be halted to allow emergency services to help the runner who collapsed near the end of the 13.1mile course from Newcastle to South Shields.
He has since died in hospital. The cause is not yet known.
Great Run Company said his next of kin has been informed of his death.
A spokesperson said: ‘The whole organisational team at the Great North Run express their sincerest condolences to his family and friends.
‘In respect of the wishes of the participant’s family, no further details will be released.
‘The cause of death will be determined in due course following medical examination.’
A record 60,000 people took part in the half-marathon, the most since it started in 1981, the Great Run Company said.
More than £25million is raised for various charities chosen by participants each year.
Participants follow a course from Newcastle, through Gateshead and South Tynesisde, before finishing at South Shields.
Some people completed it in wheelchairs, while others worse costumes with the branding of their selected charity.
Thousands of spectators came out in wind and rain to line the route.