Thousands took part in yesterday's Great North Run in memory of loved ones.

And for the 25 relatives and friends of Reuben Wilson, who died whilst taking part in the half-marathon last year, crossing the line was a poignant moment. Reuben, of Rawdon, collapsed and died in the final stage of the run.

Among those taking part in his memory was sister Naomi Bradbourne, 34 whose three-year-old son Miles suffers from a devastating genetic disorder.

All of those running the race for Reuben were raising money to make a better life for Miles, who was the 86th child in the UK to be diagnosed with MPS 1Hurler Syndrome - an incurable chromosome deficiency which affects his development.

Naomi was joined on the starting line in Tyneside by her three sisters, two brothers and 20 of Reuben's friends and family. Fundraising so far has helped pay for Miles and his mother to go to Australia to see a relative and now Naomi is planning more trips.

Naomi's sister, Samantha Green, 37, said: "We thought that by running it this year with positive feelings it would help us return home with good memories instead of bad ones."

Carol Vorderman completed the course in memory of Bradford-born television presenter Richard Whiteley who died last year. She was joined by his partner Kathryn Apan-owicz, and Countdown's Susie Dent and Richard Digence who competed for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Miss Apanowicz, who is suffering from a slipped disc, and the Countdown team walked the route instead of running.

Janet Winnard, 45, of Greenville Drive, Low Moor, Bradford, ran in two hours, 17 minutes, with her friend Andy Summers and Gary Baines.

They were inspired by their friends Eileen Ayers, of Low Moor, and Susan Mitchell, of Heaton, Bradford, who have breast cancer. They raised money for breast care units at Bradford Royal Infirmary and Airedale General Hospital.

Former footballer Tony Coulthard, 46, of Haworth, completed the course in two hours 20 minutes and was raising cash for children's charity NCH.

Julian Plant, 36, completed the course with sister Helena Lee, 39, and friend Jane Patrickson, 36, of Wilsden. They ran for Haworth Riding for Disabled and Deaf Education Through Listening and Talking (DELTA).

e-mail: rebecca.wright@bradford.newsquest.co.uk