Sport Features

Newcastle and Gateshead Quaysides will be the destination for runners, walkers and cyclists with the launch of an innovative scheme.

To mark the 26th birthday of the Great North Run, a permanent timing system has been installed in the pavement of Baltic Square, on Gateshead Quayside.

The Great North Way is the first of a network of under-street electronic timing systems which is being set up around the UK.

Brendan Foster launched the scheme

By wearing an electronic chip, runners, walkers and cyclists will trigger a timing mechanism when they pass through Baltic Square.

Increase activity

A route which measures exactly one mile runs along the Gateshead Quayside in front of The Sage Gateshead, across the Swing Bridge, back along the Newcastle Quayside and back to Baltic Square over the Gateshead Millennium Bridge.

The scheme was launched by Great North Run founder Brendan Foster along with three-times Olympian John Mayock and Gateshead Council leader Councillor Mick Henry.

The Great North Way is part of the Great Activity Campaign which aims to improve the nation's health by increasing activity and getting two million people to cover one hundred million miles per year every year by 2012 through running, walking, swimming, cycling, gym activity and dance.

Lap times are shown on an electronic display

Brendan Foster said: "This is the first of many Great Ways that will be created around the country which will encourage people to get out there and run, walk or cycle their way to fitness."

Limited edition chips

Gateshead and Newcastle Councils have worked with Nova International on the project along with support from the NewcastleGateshead Initiative and Tyne Wear Partnership.

The first Great North Run was held on 28 June 1981. This year's run will be held on Sunday 30 September.

Limited edition free chips will be available, including from Gateshead Visitor Centre.

More details about the scheme are available by visiting the Great Activity website and following the links to Great Way.