Work has started on a new development at the site

Since 27 August 1955, Gateshead Stadium has played a central role in the community, as a venue for elite athletes and developing young talent.

This week, old and new members of the Gateshead Harriers club came together to commemorate the occasion.

On Saturday, athletes from around the country were due at the stadium.

Every year, more than 12,000 schoolchildren take part in sporting events and more than 200,000 local people use the facilities to exercise.

It has hosted a string of international athletics meetings over the years.

The stadium has hosted international events over the years

Work has started on a new development at the site, which will include a top quality sports facility, community-based sports centre and sport-related education and training programmes.

More than 600 athletes from around the country were due to take part in the Tartan Games at the stadium on Saturday.

Among the events was the Stan Long Mile, in memory of the late British Olympic team coach, who helped put North East athletics on the map, and died earlier this year.

The stadium has been used as a training ground by Jonathan Edwards, Stephen Miller, Steve Cram and Brendan Foster, who set the 3,000 metres world record on the newly upgraded tartan track in 1974.

He said: "I have competed at many venues around the world, but for me Gateshead International Stadium will always be special.

"It's where I broke the world record in 1974 and where I've enjoyed the support of a knowledgeable and noisy home crowd."