In pictures: Record numbers flock to Durham for running festival’s 10th anniversary

The Durham City Run Festival celebrated its 10th anniversary, welcoming a record number of runners to the city.

The Durham City Run 5K and 10K races took over the city centre on the evening of Thursday, July 16.

More than 3,500 people signed up for the event and were cheered on by spectators along the streets of Durham.

Runners started the race outside the Radisson Blu Hotel and finished in front of Durham Cathedral and Castle.

Before they set off, participants were treated to a performance by a bugler from the 8th Battalion The Rifles.

Long distance running legend Paula Radcliffe kicked off this year’s Durham City Run Festival by leading a social breakfast run around the city centre, with close to 100 people taking part.

Afterwards, Paula visited Durham Johnston School where she met with young people to talk about her career and answer their questions.

Students also watched a special screening of Chasing Stars, a new documentary about Paula’s return to marathon running at the age of 51.

The annual Durham City Run Festival was organised by Events of the North, in partnership with Durham County Council and supported by the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority.