With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic delaying the landmark event until 2021, we have tracked back through our archives to recall some of the celebrities – both local and national – who have either braved the 13.1m-long course from Newcastle to South Shields or started the tens of thousands of runners on their way.
9. Soap star
Emmerdale's Tony Audenshaw, the ITV soap's Bob Hope, poses for photos prior to the 2013 run. Photo: Owen Humphreys
10. Mackem movers
Former Sunderland footballers Michael Gray, left, and Kevin Kilbane brave enemy territory at the Newcastle starting line in 2014. Photo: North News and Pictures
11. Oll of a runner
Singer Olly Murs poses for pictures before the start of the 2018 run. Photo: North News and Pictures
12. Mo the merrier
Six-time Great North Run winner Sir Mo Farah, a runner turned celebrity rather than the other way around, poses for a selfie after winning the 2018 event. Photo: Stu Norton