Runners were cheered on by big crowds, despite some wet weather, during the Durham City Run Festival last night.

Event founder Steve Cram said there was a great atmosphere as spectators lined the routes in the rain. As was as the running thet were also entertained with performances by acts involved in Durham BRASS.

Over 3,000 participants have signed up for the schedule of races and other running events during the course of the festival.

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Olympic silver medallist and former world record holding runner Steve Cram said: “We were excited about bringing the Durham City 5k and 10k back to Palace Green and our runners clearly loved finishing there, once they’d got the hill out of the way.

“There was a great atmosphere around the course and plenty of spectators giving great support, despite the rain.

“Our thanks go to Durham County Council and Durham University, whose support has made it possible to hold this amazing festival across the city, and to all of the volunteers who make so many vital contributions.”

The winner of the 2023 Durham City 10k was Dougie Musson in 32 minutes and 29 seconds. Stephen Jackson of Sunderland Harriers was second in 32:51, with clubmate Liam Taylor third in 33:18.

The women’s race was won by Charlotte Dillon of Houghton Harriers in 36:17, followed by Sarah McNutt (39:42) and Imogen Bungay of Elswick Harriers (39:55).

The 2023 Durham City 5k was won by Chris Perkins of Blackley North Manchester AC in 16:21, with Duncan Hughes of Blackhill Bounders in second (16:42) and Kieran Reay of Morpeth Harriers in third (16:44).

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Nicole Burlinson won the women’s race in 18:12, ahead of Katie Francis of Blackley North Manchester AC (18:41) and Poppie Phillipson of Birtley AC (19:15).

Also among the field in the 5k were Paula Radcliffe and her son Raphael, and Horrible Histories author Terry Deary.

All will be back in Durham on Saturday morning for the final day of the Durham City Run Festival.

Paula and Raphael will be taking part in Families on Track when 65 teams take on a 10k relay Durham Racecourse, while Terry will bring the festival to a close by leading a ‘Deadly Durham’ run around the streets of the city, with stops along the way to hear terrible tales where they happened.

The races were started by Councillor James Rowlandson, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for resources, investment and assets.

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He said: “This is a truly fantastic weekend in our wonderful city and county with both Durham Brass and Durham City Run Festival proving real successes.

“It’s been great to see people of all ages and backgrounds coming out to join in, or simply watch, both events and to see so many smiling faces at each.

“The festivals are mainstays in our events calendar and provide a great economic boost for our county by drawing in people who spend money here and make repeat visits.

“Of course, the run has the added bonus of allowing people to exercise in a fun way with family and friends and we hope everyone is enjoying a brilliant weekend, however they’re spending it.”