Radcliffe is beginning her build-up to the Beijing Olympics

The marathon world record holder, 33, is making her comeback after the birth of daughter Isla in January.

Radcliffe was not able to defend her marathon title at last month's World Championships because of a stress fracture at the base of her spine.

"I now feel I'm at that point and ready to come out and race well. I am really looking forward to it," she said.

"I love the Great North Run, have many happy memories and always get such great support there.

I know I'll get a big test on my comeback but look forward to getting back to having fun racing Paula Radcliffe

"I love mass races where the atmosphere is so good at the start and all along the route."

The Great North Run, which Radcliffe won in 2000 and 2003, will be her first race in 21 months.

Radcliffe holds the course record over the 13.1-mile run from Newcastle to South Shields of 65 minutes and 40 seconds.

606: DEBATE How will Radcliffe do in the Great North Run?

She will be joined in the race - the world's biggest half-marathon - by British team-mate Jo Pavey, who finished fourth at the 10,000m at the Worlds in Japan.

Radcliffe will use the Tyneside race to begin her build-up to the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, where she goes for a first gold in the marathon.

"I really missed racing through the pregnancy and the setbacks since have emphasised this even more," she added.

"It has really underlined to me how much I want to carry on competing for a good while yet.

"I also know I will get a big test on my comeback but look forward to getting back to having fun racing.

"I chose a half because I wanted a good quality fast race to come back and blow away the cobwebs."