Thousands of runners and spectators stood for an emotional rendition of God Save the King at the start line of the Great North Run today. It was one of the first times the national anthem has been played at a major sporting event since Queen Elizabeth II died on Thursday.
The singing of the anthem followed an impeccably observed minute’s silence to honour the late Queen. There was also a time of reflection led by North East faith leaders of various religions and denominations.
Before the mass start at 10.45am, Great North Run founder and president Sir Brendan Foster said: “The loss of Her Majesty, the late Queen Elizabeth II, has been deeply felt throughout our nation and around the world.”
