Thousands of runners and spectators came together in Durham last week as the city celebrated the 2025 Durham City Run Festival. Taking place over four action-packed days, the annual event attracted more than 3,000 participants and brought a vibrant energy to the streets, trails and historic sites around the city centre.

Kicking off on Wednesday 16 July, the festival opened with former BBC Look North presenter Jeff Brown hosting a conversation with North East athletics legend Steve Cram. Thursday saw the heart of Durham transformed for the 5K and 10K city races. With over 2,500 runners on the start line outside the Radisson Blu Hotel and finishing at the iconic Durham Cathedral, the atmosphere was electric.

Top honours in the 10K went to Liam Aldridge of Billingham Running Club in 31:10, while Charlotte Dillon of Houghton Harriers retained her women’s title with a time of 35:37. The 5K saw Sunderland Harriers’ Liam Taylor take the win in 16:11, with Alex Sneddon of Jarrow and Hebburn AC first home in the women’s race in 18:16.

The grand finale took place on Saturday morning with Paula Radcliffe’s Families on Track at the Old Racecourse. Nearly 80 teams of families took part in a continuous 10K relay, promoting fun and fitness across all ages. With live music, games and sunshine, it was a colourful, feel-good finish to the festival.

Event founder Steve Cram praised the week’s success, saying: “It’s always brilliant to see thousands of people running and spectating in such a stunning setting. From reliving world records at the Gala to the cheers on Palace Green and the energy of Families on Track, it’s been a true celebration of running.”

If you'd like to know more, visit the Durham City Run Festival website.

Image: Events of the North