If you are hoping to take part in the Great North Run, participants will be glad to know the ballot has now opened.

There are also other ways to enter the world’s biggest half marathon this year including raising money for a chosen charity.

By doing this, it will guarantee you a place rather than a randomised ballot spot.

The NewcastleGateshead website says: “For many participants, raising money for a chosen charity is often one of the most important and most rewarding reasons for taking part in the Great North Run.

“There are many charities involved in the event so it is really easy to find a cause to support which is close to your heart.

“A wide range of charities of all sizes have a number of places available and can allocate them to aspiring participants in return for a commitment to raise an agreed sponsorship amount.”

If you want to run for charity in 2024, you can sign up here  - but be quick as there are limited places.

How to enter Great North Run 2024 ballot

Elsewhere, the ballot for those hoping to claim a spot in the Great North Run has officially opened (January 8) - you can apply here.

It will remain open until Monday, February 12 at 10am.

The AJ Bell website comments: “Simply click the entry link and complete the ballot registration form to enter.

“You will be asked to submit payment details for the entry fee and for any optional merchandise you may wish to purchase.

“You will need to authorise this payment, if requested by your bank, to complete your entry however no funds will be removed from your account unless you are successful in the ballot draw that will take place on or around the time the ballot closes.

“It’s important that you have the necessary funds available in your account at the time of the ballot draw.”

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It adds: “You will receive a confirmation email shortly after you complete your registration and that’s all you need to do.

“If you don’t receive a confirmation email, please check your spam folder.

“All entrants of the ballot will receive an email confirming whether or not they have been successful after the ballot is drawn.”

For those who are Great North Run members, you do not need to enter the ballot.

How to enter Great North Run Elite 2024

If you want to take part in the Great North Run competitively, people who meet certain race criteria can do so by sending details to matt.turnbull@thegreatruncompany.com.

Find out more including the race criteria here.

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Does it cost to enter the Great North Run?

There is an entry fee of £59 to pay when entering the Great North Run which both affiliated and unaffiliated participants must pay.

However, how you will be charged will depend on how you are choosing to run the event.

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For example, “if you opt to enter via the general ballot, your entry fee will be charged once you have been notified that your application has been successful,” explains the NewcastleGateshead website.

“If your chosen method of entry is via a charity place, then your entry fee will be paid to your supporting charity.

“During the process of gaining a charity place for the Great North Run, you and the charity will agree a minimum pledge which you will aim to meet in return for your slot in the race.”

When is the Great North Run 2024?

The Great North Run takes place on Sunday, September 8 - the 13.1-mile route will begin from Newcastle and finish in South Shields.