THE Gateshead Quayside was transformed into a river of colour today (Tuesday, May 7) as runners draped themselves in the flags of 12 European countries – to launch the Bupa Great North 10k Gateshead.

The event, which has been named the official running Partner for the Gateshead 2013 European Athletics Team Championships, will take place ahead of the final day of the team competition on Sunday, June 23.

Runners with the flags of the competing European countries were joined at the Millennium Bridge by 19 year-old Toby Henderson of Morpeth, who has autism, learning difficulties and loss of speech.

He will be taking part in the 10k run with his support assistant and occupational therapist for the Toby Henderson Trust, a charity set up by his parents to support children suffering from autism and their families.

Mother Lesley Henderson said: “It’s the first time he will be running to raise money for his charity. I am so proud of him.”

Toby was also joined by Gateshead College employees taking part in the Business Challenge, European Athletics Team Championships volunteers and the North East Autism Society – which has been named the official local charity for the event.

Dave Newton, managing director of Nova, organisers of the Bupa Great North 10k Gateshead, said: “Sunday will be a day to remember, with thousands of participants getting the chance to cross the same finish line as the stars competing at the European Athletics Team Championships.”

The 10k route takes in the Gateshead Quayside, before crossing the finish line inside Gateshead International Stadium – where European athletes will be competing later that day.

Mo Farah has confirmed he will be available to compete at the European Athletics Team Championships on June 22 to 23 June.

Entries for the Bupa Great North 10k Gateshead are open at greatrun.org/north10k and European Athletics Team Championships tickets are available at gateshead2013.com.