Sunderland's sunny race day draws thousands to the street.

Saturday's race day attracted thousands to the street for a lively event.

2024 Sunderland Runs event

Thousands of runners toured the city, with thousands more turning out to cheer them on, as Sunderland City Runs returned for 2024.

More than 4,000 people signed up to take part in the Sunderland City 10k, Sunderland City Half Marathon and Active Sunderland BIG 3k.

In the 10k category, Benjamin Bayly secured first place for men's at 00:31:32, while Stacey Smith claimed victory for women at 00:32:52. In the Half Marathon, Liam Walshaw took the men's title with a time of 01:13:28, and Aly Dixon clinched the women's victory, finishing in 01:19:15. The 3k sprint saw Joshua Ebllewhite emerge as the men's winner, clocking in at 00:11:20, while Lexie Brown claimed the women's title at 00:12:26.

First time runner, Peter Moran said this was quite an experience for him as he had no idea he could do this.

"I feel absolutely elated. It's the first time i have ever done a run under 50 minutes. I am over the moon with that.

"I got an injury just before Christmas, which made me think this wasn't going to work. Also, i haven't done as much training as i would have liked, and it made me nervous about coming in today. But i woke up a couple of weeks ago and said, yeah- i'll give it a go".

Mr. Moran also said he was encouraged by friends who previously participated in the race, affirming that signing up was for a good cause.

A half Marathon runner, who prefers to be identified as Tracy Durham said: "Its been great and we were lucky with the weather".

She praised the organisers effort for making it better each year. "

The turn out and enthusiasm of Sunderland people is quite impressive, she added.

"I feel very tired because i set off a little bit too fast- so it was hard work for the last half.

"I've done two other half Marathons before now, and there were both flat, but this was quite tough- but it was worth it".

Asked if she would love to sign up for another race in a few months months- she said: "Ask me again tomorrow".

Molly Dowdson, 24, said: " Its a beautiful day to be outside, and much more seeing these people participating in the race".

Runners reaching the finish line

The 24-year-old who came in from Washington on Saturday night to cheer runners said she had always wanted to run, but has got a bad knee that prevents her from attempting any activity that stresses the knee.

"When i watch people run, it makes me feel alive. The adrenaline rush, the fear of not making it, and eventually seeing people get to the finish line gives me an excitement i can't explain".

Despite the warm weather, the sea fret brought a refreshing coolness, making it a perfect day to be outside.

Sunderland 2024 half Marathon

Runners of all ages came together to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and raise money for a charitable cause.

Click here for the full 2024 Sunderland Runs event.