OLYMPIAN Steve Cram yesterday urged people of the North East to get behind a new long distance run coming to the region.

Thousands of elite runners and charity fundraisers are expected to take part in the new 10km event in Sunderland this summer.

Mr Cram officially launched the event yesterday at the National Glass Centre at the University of Sunderland alongside city council leader Paul Watson and Andrea Morgan, of race sponsor Red Spotted Hanky.

The former world champion middle-distance runner also said that a marathon is set to be included at next year’s event.

He said: “This is one of the most exciting projects that I have worked on in recent years.

“The opportunity to help create a new running event here in Sunderland is one I couldn’t resist. We’ve managed to design a 10km course that really will showcase the city at its best, but that’s just the start of our plans.

“It’s great to work on events that can capture the imagination of the people of the North East.

“I am sure that this year’s run will be a big success and we’ll build on that to deliver an even bigger city running programme in 2012, including what I believe will be an outstanding marathon.”

There were fears that Sunderland would go without a race after the Great North 10k, which had taken place for the last couple of years in the city, was moved to Gateshead.

The race, on June 26, starts at the Stadium of Light and goes south over the Wearmouth Bridge, before taking in Sunniside and Fawcett Street.

Having looped the city centre it goes back over the River Wear before passing the National Glass Centre and Sunderland Marina.

The final stage is St Peter’s Church, before returning to Sunderland’s home stadium.

Coun Paul Watson added: “The Sunderland City 10k is set to be one of the most exciting events in our summer calendar. I am delighted that in partnership with Steve Cram and redspottedhanky, we will be delivering an occasion that thousands of residents and visitors to the city will be able to enjoy.”

To register for the race call 525 5747 or visit www.sunderlandcity10k.com