MARK Knopfler has re-recorded the iconic Local Hero theme ahead of next weekend’s Great North Run.

The song entitled, Going Home, was originally released more than 30 years ago and will be played live to mark the race’s one millionth finish.

All royalties from the digital only release will be donated to Future Fund, a charity that supports children’s cancer research at the Great North Children’s hospital.

The track will be available for download from Monday (September 1) from iTunes, Amazon, Google, Spotify, Deezer, 7digital and Rdio.

Said Knopfler: “I’m proud to have been a supporter of this great event from the beginning and am looking forward to being there to play ‘Local Hero’ once more on September 4 when the Bupa Great North Run gets ready to notch up its millionth finish.”

Great North Run founder Brendan Foster said he was delighted the song was being re-released.

“Mark has always been a great supporter of the event and it's brilliant that over 30 years after its first release, this track is going to reach a new audience and help the Future Fund at the same time,” he said.

For details on the release visit https://itunes.apple.com/album/going-home-theme-local-hero/id910900608