The first Jane Tomlinson York 10k Run has been hailed a huge success by organisers and the thousands of runners who took part in the event.

Thousands of people set of from Knavesmire yesterday morning in the inaugural event, set up in memory of the inspirational fundraiser who dedicated the final years of her life to raising money for charity while suffering from cancer.

Throngs of cheering crowds lined the course, which began and finished at Knavesmire and passed York landmarks including the Minster, the River Ouse and the former Terry’s factory.

Olympic legend Steve Cram hailed the event a huge success and said his belief that the city would make a fantastic location for the race had “proved to be the case”.

Mike Tomlinson described the day as “absolutely fantastic”. “It beat every single expectation we had,” he said.


We’ll race again next year

Speaking after the event, Mike Tomlinson said: “It was an absolutely fantastic day. It beat every single expectation we had.

“I was there at the finishing line watching everyone cross; I think it was important to be there as obviously it was an emotional day for thousands of people, and it was just great to see so many smiling faces as they finished the race.

“We hope, and anticipate that we have raised thousands of pounds for charity.

“Since we launched the race, the support and interest has been fantastic, so much so, we have already begun planning next year’s event – which will take place on August 1 –and we just hope it will meet the amazing standard we have set for this year’s first York Race For All event.

“Hopefully this event will take place annually for many years to come.

“It was great to see 5,000 people on the streets of York and hopefully next year even more people will take part.

“Obviously we want to give a big thank you to everyone who took part and supported the race.”

* To pre-register for next year’s race log on to www.runforall.com/york/

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See today's Press newspaper for an eight-page pullout featuring pictures and interviews with runners plus Top 20 male and female race times.