The countdown to the AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run is on and it’s shaping up to be an action-packed celebration of running. This year the festival of running returns to the city on Sunday 5 May and if stunning views, inspiring history and Birmingham cityscapes are your thing, then this event is right up your street.

Each year, thousands of runners push their perseverance and passion to the limit and take on the super-scenic 10K and half marathon routes. And adding excitement to the build up to race day, organisers have now revealed the medal design for this year's races.

Designed to celebrate the spirit of Birmingham, both half marathon and 10K designs are inspired by the incredible city. Both the half marathon and 10K designs use the circle pattern that is found on The Library of Birmingham building, with the 10K depicting a bull, a nod to the Bullring Bull and Ozzy at Grand Central.

Organisers explain: "Depending on the distance, you will have 10 or 13 lines that encircle the design to remind you how many kms or miles you have run! Whether you're a Brummie native or visiting for race weekend, this medal is a lasting reminder of the vibrancy of the city that you'll no doubt experience on your run."

The Great Birmingham Run is a celebration of the power of running and is a run for everyone, of all ages and abilities, whether it’s your first 10K or your 50th half marathon. Get the whole family involved in the fun with runners (aged 3-8) able to take on a 1.5K dash, while Junior runners (aged 9-15) can tackle a supercharged 2.5K sprint.

The event sold out last year, so don't miss out! If you'd like to know more, visit the Great Birmingham Run website.

Image: Great Run Company