Pavey is considering stepping up to the marathon

The Commonwealth 5,000m silver medallist, 32, is using the race as a benchmark as she considers a switch to a career in road running.

"It is going to be a tough field as most of the other runners are far more experienced," said Pavey.

"I need a wake-up to cope with them and I'm looking forward to the change."

Pavey has been preparing for the challenge by working with her husband and coach Gavin on improving the strength needed for endurance running.

"It's quite daunting stepping up to the longer distances and I know I need to build-up my leg muscle strength," said Pavey.

"I'm also aware I must get in plenty of hill work and I've already started doing that during training in Richmond Park."

Adere has finished fifth at the Great North Run for the last two years

Former world half-marathon champion Adere is chasing her first Great North Run title despite contesting the Tyneside race four times.

The 33-year-old Ethiopian finished second behind Paula Radcliffe in 2003 when the British marathon world record holder set a course record of one hour five minutes and 40 seconds.

"She is determined to show she can finally get to grips with the tough course," said elite race director Matthew Turnbull.

Kenyan Chepkemei also has the right credentials to challenge both Pavey and Adere, having won the race in 2001.

Olympic and European marathon champion Stefano Baldini heads the men's field alongside world champion Morocco's Jaouad Gharib.

Marathon world record-holder Paul Tergat will also be a contender while Jon Brown returns from a nine-month injury lay-off to lead British hopes.