The Great North Run 19 September 2010 - The 2010

THE economic impact of this weekend’s Great North Run could see local businesses cash in to the tune of more than £22m.

More than 54,000 runners will pound the streets for charities across the country as the North East plays host to the world’s biggest half-marathon.

And last night it was said that the 13.1-mile race would pump more than £22.1m into the local economy ... an increase of 26% on six years ago. In 2005, the Newcastle to South Shields run generated £17.6m.

David Newton, managing director of Nova International, organisers of the Bupa Great North Run, said: “We are delighted by the positive impact that the Great North Run has had on the local economy and we are hoping for a similar effect this year.”

Last year 73% of those taking part in the race hailed from outside Northumberland, Tyne & Wear, County Durham and the Tees Valley. More than 80% of those visitors spent at least one night in the city over the weekend, with nearly 15,000 staying in hotels or guest houses, while more than half enjoyed a meal out.

Many visiting runners also brought supporters with them and local participants persuaded friends and family from outside the region to come and cheer them on – an average of 2.45 spectators per person, each spending a further £111.62.