A ST ALBANS runner was among the 37,000 people who took part in the 26th BUPA Great North Run in Newcastle on Sunday.

Graphic designer Steve Fletcher, 47, was part of the 889-strong Team Macmillan who were running in distinctive green vests for Macmillan Cancer Support.

He said: "It was hard, but better than last year. I really enjoyed the rain.

"I think this will be my last half marathon.

"I chose to run for Macmillan Cancer Support as my dad and the rest of the family had Macmillan support more than ten years ago."

Macmillan events manager Chris Farrell said: "I was standing at the road side at the around the five-mile mark cheering along our Macmillan runners.

"It was great to see them all going by.

"I've completed the Great North Run myself so know what a challenge it is, especially went you're faced with the hilly sections.

"So everyone who finished, whatever their time, has my admiration and thanks for the money they'll raise."