If you are one of the thousands who have missed out on a ballot place for the 2025 AJ Bell Great North Run then you may well be feeling a little deflated at the moment, but there is still a way to keep your Tyneside dream alive this autumn!

60,000 runners will be lining up on the start line on Sunday 7 September, and a large number of these will be charity runners, you could be one of them too. Every year these incredible charity runners raise around £25 million for worthy organisations and causes close to their hearts. So why not guarantee your place and make a difference at the same time by running for charity?

You may have a charity in mind, but there are also the Great North Run charity partners to consider. Once you've made your mind up on who you want to run for then make sure you tell the world what you’re doing! Announce you’re running using the hashtag #GreatNorthRun and be part of the buzz as thousands of others do the same, sharing their goals and their first sweaty post-training run selfies.

Remember to keep talking about your fundraising target – to your friends, family, colleagues and social media followers. Starting your fundraising early gives you the best chance of hitting – and even exceeding – your goal. And nothing gives you the determination to tick off those training runs – and get round the course on the day itself – like knowing you’re doing it for a worthy cause.

The best way to fundraise is to use a fundraising website like GoFundMe. This specialist website allows you to set up your own page online where friends and family can donate. It's really easy and it's great to see the progress you are making towards your total.

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

Image: Great North Run Facebook