HEADS could be seen bobbing down Saddler Street seconds after the air horn signalled the start of the second Prince Bishops Durham City Run.

The sound of trainers pounding the ground followed as over 2,500 amateur athletes snaked their way through the narrow streets.

Crowds turned out to watch, thankful the grey skies overhead did not give way to rain, and cheered on their friends and family as they passed.

The historic streets became filled with a sea of colour that flowed into the Market Place, before circling the peninsular then headed back up to the cathedral.

Stephen Jackson, who won the men’s 10km in 34:08, said: “There was a brilliant atmosphere around the course.

“This is my home city and there were loads of people shouting my name and cheering me on, which was great.”

Tracy Millmore won the women’s 10km in 37:42. In the 5km, Nick Swinburn came first with a time of 15:49 for the men, while Robyn Bennett’s time of 18:57 was best among the women.

Before the main event, there was also a race for emergency services staff, who took part in a heated hill sprint from Saddler Street to Palace Green.

Race director and Olympic medallist Steve Cram, from Events of the North, which organised the runs, said: “It has been a fantastic evening of running in Durham.

“There were loads of spectators lining the race routes and they created a vibrant atmosphere throughout the evening.”

Julie-Ann Collins, a learning mentor at Easington Academy, is raising money for Cancer Research and used the 10k event to help prepare for the Great North Run.

She said: “It is a beautiful city and it is a mixed course, so I am hoping it will strengthen my legs. I have really got into running with other people.

“I have got the bug.”