The "heartbroken" parents of a North East man who collapsed and died during the Great North Run have spoken out and paid tribute to their son.

Sam Wealleans, of Newbiggin in Northumberland, died in hospital after falling ill towards the end of the 13-mile route of the half-marathon on September 8. 

The 29-year-old was taking part in the race to raise funds for mental health charity Mind, in memory of his sister Carly and a family friend. 

(Image: GREAT NORTH RUN) Sam's parents have now spoken out publicly for the first time since their son's death, saying they are "devastated" by the loss.

They said: "We are devastated and heartbroken following the sudden and unexpected death of our beloved son, Sam.

"We have been overwhelmed by the thousands of kind messages and charitable donations from people across the country and would like to sincerely thank everyone for their support and sympathy.

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"Our family have taken great comfort in knowing he was loved by all who knew him. Continued respect of our privacy at this most sad and difficult time is much appreciated."

A page set up by Sam to fundraise for his run was originally set with an aim to gather £350, but a whopping £27,700 has been raised as donations continue to flood in.

Runners also gathered at the Souter Lighthouse Carpark today (September 15) to take part in a 2.1 honour run/walk in memory and tribute to Sam and the stint of the run he did not complete.