OLYMPIAN Alyson Dixon helped launch the tenth anniversary of the Simplyhealth Great North 10k yesterday.

Dixon, recently returned from Australia after finishing sixth in the Commonwealth Games marathon, joined a group of runners from across the region on the Gateshead Stadium track.

The Sunderland Stroller, who finished second in 2014, hopes to be on the start line on July 8 and said: “It’s a wonderful event – one for all abilities. There’s 5,000 runners on the streets of Gateshead and along the Quayside, it’s great for the North-East to have another great event like this.

“It keeps on going from strength to strength and it’s not about the elite runners at the front end, or the best club runners at the front end, it’s about everyone – it’s an all-inclusive event.

“All shapes and sizes can get out and do it. I’ve taken part before when it’s fit in with my training, it’s a good fast run.

“I have always enjoyed the course when I have taken part. It’s also a tough one because you have two little hills on the course.”

Also at the International Stadium was Colin Plews, from South Shields, also known as Big Pink Dress.

He started fundraising in 2014 for Breast Cancer Now by taking on running events in his striking, handmade pink dress in memory of a friend who had passed away.

Now he’s a Great North 10k and Great North Run regular.

“It’s an event I love, it’s up there with the best of them,’’ he said. “Obviously I’m easy to spot and every time I’m here people try and get as many photos in my different outfits.

“I’m from South Shields, so running along the sea front after 13 miles in September is memorable! But finishing here in the Stadium is something special with all your friends and family here.

“I was a runner when I was younger and used to train with Steve Cram. Here we are a few years later….

“The races are engrained in North-East culture now. Running along the Quayside and coming back here, you can’t get a better finish anywhere.’’

Some 200 Gurkhas will also be taking part, as they again use the run as part of their training. Travelling from Catterick Garrison, the event introduces them to the UK as part of their cultural orienteering programme.

The North East’s biggest 10k running event takes place on Sunday, July 8 and to enter visit Greatrun.org/North10k