THE Great Run Company has a new chairman.

Former BP managing director Peter Mather replaces Sir Brendan Foster.

Foster, who founded the Great North Run in 1981, moves to a new role as president.

Mather - the former BP Group regional president (SVP) for Europe and head of country, said: “I’m delighted to be joining the Great Run Company at such an exciting time.

"The event celebrated an incredible milestone in 2021 with the 40th Great North Run and it’s a privilege to have the opportunity to drive that legacy forward.

“Although I have some big shoes to fill, I’m looking forward to supporting the talented team as they continue to build on their world-class reputation in mass participation sporting events.

“I’m a passionate believer in the power of sport, in particular mass participation events, to enhance people’s lives and have a lasting, positive impact on our communities.”

Two new non-executive directors Nick Read, commercial director at Silverstone, and commercial director of Ascot racecourse Felicity Barnard will join Peter on the board.

Read said: ”The Great Run Company has a really compelling proposition and I’m really looking forward to joining the board.

"With an ever-increasing focus on individual health and wellbeing, it feels like a great time to take on this role and use my experience to support the company in its commercial aims.”

Barnard added: “‘I’m delighted to be appointed to the board of the Great Run Company.

"The events provide the opportunity for participants to achieve and inspire up and down the country.

“I look forward to working with the team to evolve the business for our competitors and to reach new audiences as the company continues to innovate.”

Chief executive Paul Foster said the new appointments will play an important role in the company's journey to 50.

The company is currently working on product innovations like 13 Valleys - an epic ultra-marathon event in the Lake District National Park - as well as investing in its production company Film Nova and developing the Great Run Series.