IT'S been the turn of the younger generation to stretch their legs as part of the Great North Run weekend.

Youngsters aged between nine and 16 have been taking part in the Junior Great North Run on Newcastle Gateshead Quayside this morning (Saturday).

The budding running stars of the future have been enjoying the challenge of completing the 4km course.

The Mini Great North Run got underway this afternoon where runners aged three to eight took on the 1.2km course, with an adult in tow.

Read more: Everything you need to know about the spectacular Great North Run 2021

Meanwhile, the Mini 50 and wheelchair waves, created in conjunction with the Great North Children's Hospital, gave children who ordinarily wouldn't be able to participate in the Great North Run events a chance to take part.

More than 5,000 young runners were due to compete in the Junior & Mini Great North Run today.

The event, which is the UK’s biggest children’s run, is part of the Great North Run, the world’s biggest half marathon.

About 60,000 people are registered to take on the 13.1 mile challenge on Sunday, as part of the 40th Great North Run.

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