THE entry limit for this year's Great North Run has been reached in the quickest time ever.

Although the official closing date for entries is not until May, organisers of the annual half-marathon have already received applications from the maximum 47,000 runners.

But there may still be a way to take part in the event, which will be held on Sunday, September 21.

Organiser Nigel Gough said: "We have already reached the entry limit.

"But there are about 150 charities registered with us who have got a number of guaranteed places, and they are still actively recruiting racers to come along and run for them."

The brainchild of distance runner Brendan Foster in 1981, the run from Newcastle to South Shields has grown to become the biggest half-marathon in the world.

Mr Gough said: "Brendan is anxious that it gets better year after year and that's what we're trying to do again.

"We're happy that the entry process has been so well received and people are keen to take part.

"We want to make sure it is an event where people who want to take part have a successful run and can enjoy it."