A RECORD number of runners took to the streets for the sixth Run Sunderland Festival today (Sunday, May 1).

Despite chilly and damp conditions, thousands of club and fun runners tackled the Siglion Sunderland City Half Marathon and 10K, which for the first time started and finished in Keel Square, a symbol of the city’s regeneration.

The Run Sunderland Festival was organised by Events of the North in partnership with Sunderland City Council and Sunderland Live.

The day started with the Sunderland City 10k - won by Jonathan Taylor, of Morpeth Harriers, who crossed the line in 29 mins 56 secs. The first woman was Justina Heslop, of Elswick Harriers, in 35 min 48 secs.

The Sunderland City Half Marathon was won by Tadele Mulugeta, of Elswick Harriers, in 70 mins 23 secs, while Gateshead Harrier Michelle Nolan won the women’s race in 82 mins 22 secs.

Almost 4,000 people entered the two Sunderland events, a 15 per cent increase on 2015.

Participants included representatives from athletics clubs throughout the North-East, along with hundreds of fun runners, many of whom were raising money for good causes, including the event’s official charity partner, Barnardo’s. The runners also included a group of 14 people, who travelled from China to take part in the event.

The Run Sunderland Festival was sponsored by Siglion, the regeneration company that is leading the transformation of sites around the city.

Event founder and race director Steve Cram comments: “It’s been an excellent day of running in Sunderland.

"Bringing the Siglion Sunderland City Half Marathon and 10K closer to the city centre has worked really well and Keel Square has proved itself to be an excellent base for big events like this.

“Once again, the weather added to the challenge for runners and spectators, but they all rose to it brilliantly."