The ballot for the AJ Bell Great North Run is now open, signalling the countdown for the highly-anticipated half marathon taking place on September 8.

The event, dubbed the world's biggest half marathon, draws a crowd of around 60,000 entrants annually and looks to raise an estimated £25 million for charities.

Chief Executive of the Great Run company, Paul Foster, said: “We’re excited to open the ballot for the 43rd Great North Run and begin the countdown to the start line in September.

“As always, we’re looking forward to celebrating tens of thousands of incredible runners from across the country and around the world, as they achieve personal goals and raise much needed funds for good causes.

“Each year we’re amazed by the incredible atmosphere our runners and supporters create all along the Newcastle to South Shields course, demonstrating everything that’s great about our region. We’re working on plans to make the 2024 event a truly memorable occasion.”

The event will be broadcast live on the BBC, showing to 169 territories around the world.

The ballot for entry will run from 10am today and close at 10am on February 12.

You can enter the ballot today at greatrun.org/events/great-north-run/.