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Chronicle Live
National
Simon Meechan

All the Great North Run 2022 changes including a minute's silence to mark Queen's death

A minute's silence will be held before a rendition of the national anthem to commemorate the Queen ahead of the Great North Run.

Runners were told on Friday to expect a more subdued atmosphere this year, as it was confirmed the half marathon will go ahead after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Great Run has confirmed a number of planned changes made in light of Her Majesty's passing.

Read more: BBC confirms Great North Run commentary and presenter team

"The event has traditionally been a celebration of the extraordinary achievements of ordinary people, this year it will be an opportunity for us to come together and express our condolences, whilst celebrating the life of our extraordinary Queen," says Great Run.

Great North Run Founder and President Sir Brendan Foster will give a message before the mass start at 10.45am. That will be followed by a time of reflection led by faith leaders from the North East of various religions and denominations.

One minute of silence will be observed before the half-marathon, after which participants and spectators will be invited to sing the national anthem, God Save the King.

The charity support and music zones on the course will go ahead but the Red Arrows displays are cancelled.

Runners are advised to consider the special circumstances around this year's Great North Run when they decide what to wear.

Great Run says: "We will be encouraging everyone to be mindful of the very sad and special circumstances in which the event will be taking place. We encourage you to communicate your respect in whichever way you feel appropriate.

For some of you this will mean wearing a black armband, for others it might be a message on your race number – please consider your plans to ensure they are respectful of the occasion."

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