THOUSANDS of runners turned out for this year’s Greater Manchester Run on what turned out to be a cool spring day.

Organisers said it helped create the perfect running conditions at the event which was sponsored by ASICS, and at which Kenya’s Shadrack Tanui smashed the course record of 2.22.34 by crossing the finishing line in a time of 2.21.17.

More than 10,000 runners participated in the event which was run across Trafford borough streets and road and is deemed a flat, fast and friendly course.

A 30-strong field of elite athletes participated, providing stiff competition for the finish. They included first time UK marathon competitor Shadrack Tanui, 31, from Kenya.

Dani Nimmock, of the City of Norwich Athletics Club, was the first in for the women, nailing a personal best of 2.38.24.

Elite runner Ben Johnson also took to the podium on the steps of Trafford Town Hall with a runner’s up spot in a time of 2.25.03, while Mark Ryan came a very close third place with a time of 2.25.39 for the men.

In second and third place for the women was Katie White with a time of 2.41.15 and Julie Briscoe who finished at 2.41.35.

Claire Lomas, who is paralysed from the chest down, also started her marathon challenge on the day. Claire, who uses a robotic suit to walk, will be continuing her ambition to smash her last marathon finish in 2012.

Her efforts will be chronicled each day on greatermanchestermarathon.co.uk until she achieves her spectacular goal, where race organisers Xtra Mile Events are planning a significant reception to cheer her on as she crosses the finish line.

Sean Anstee, leader of Trafford Council, said: “It has been a cracking day here in Trafford and the race has been so exciting to watch. The event is renowned for its outstanding crowd support and unique entertainment around the course.

"It is a great showcase of the true spirit of people here who have shown a world-class welcome so many local and international participants. I offer my congratulations to all who took part, from elite athletes to the many who successfully raised so much money for charity.”

Full results for 2018 and to sign up for the 2019 race visit greatermanchestermarathon.com