Manchester's best running event, the Great Manchester Run, will be back bigger and better than ever on Sunday 26 May, with a brilliant city centre 10K and half marathon. This is your chance to experience the incredible atmosphere and run alongside some of the world’s best athletes, with it all broadcast live on the BBC.

Starting on Portland Street, runners will pass some of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks and experience the incredible local support all along the route. Both the 10K and half marathon take in city highlights including Old Trafford, the Imperial War Museum at Salford Quays and The Lowry – meanwhile half marathon runners make up the miles heading out to the Etihad before the routes combine for a grandstand finish on Deansgate.

Over 99% of runners say they’d recommend this incredible event to a friend and it’s clear to see why. From the rocking music zones to the charity cheering squads, and the amazing people of Manchester lining the streets – the atmosphere and spirit is Manchester through and through. The post-event celebrations continue with friends and loved ones in the Après Zone, with plenty of local food and drink venues around to refuel.

Whether you’re just beginning your running journey, or conquering your 50th half marathon, it’s a run for everyone, of all ages and abilities. So, if your motivation is to hit a fitness goal, to do something incredible for charity, to hear thousands of strangers cheering you on, or simply for fun, take your place on the start line and experience it all for yourself.

It’s not all about the adults though, the popular Junior and Mini events take place on Saturday 25 May at the Etihad. The Junior (ages 9-15) and Mini (ages 3-8) events give kids the chance to take centre stage – starting on the Manchester Regional Arena track and looping around the Etihad stadium, Minis take on a 1.6K dash and Juniors a 2.5K challenge, before a grandstand finish with spectators cheering our future running stars over the line. With high-fives, roaring crowd support and special medals for the finishers, the kids get to enjoy the big event experience.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Great Manchester Run website.

Image: Great Run Company