A 10KM women's race could be held in Sunderland next summer.

Nova International, organiser of the internationally popular half-marathon The Great North Run, intends to hold the event in June for 5,000 runners.

The company, led by Brendan Foster, hopes it will become an annual event.

It is expected that the run will be televised, showcasing the route along the coastline at Seaburn and Roker.

Sunderland has already hosted several high-profile events, including Radio 1's Big Weekend, where bands and artists performed to 30,000 people, and the Sunderland International Airshow, which attracts more than a million people each year.

Councillor Mel Speding, of Sunderland City Council, said: "I am delighted that Sunderland's impressive track record for delivering major events has been recognised by Nova International, market leaders in the world of sports marketing and event organisation. Subject to cabinet approval and successful contractual negotiations, the city will be proud to host this major sporting event."

Nova International managing director Dave Newton said: "We are excited by the prospect of bringing a Great Run event to the City of Sunderland.

"The growth in women's running has been phenomenal in recent years and this proposed event has all the potential ingredients to succeed on the national event stage."