The Great North Run might be a virtual event this year - but perhaps not in Whitehaven.

Together We Can fundraiser Julianne Kelly is urging people to get involved in the virtual event.

However if she can find a way to ensure social distancing, she feels the run might be able to go ahead in reality in the town.

“We always have a lot of Cumbrians raising lots of money for our charitable projects.

“The good news is that GNR have launched a Virtual GNR 2020 event, which allows people to still run the 13.1 miles on the day in your own community, which you can walk, jog or run.”

Julianne said as a result, Together We Can has launched a campaign to get people in Cumbria to take part.

“It is sad that it is not going to be held this year but that is not an excuse to let all your training go to waste.”

“Entry to the Virtual Great North Run is free, and it’s open to everyone.

“You’ll still run, jog or walk a 13.1 mile distance on Sunday 13 at the same time as thousands of others, but you’ll use a special app developed for the event, which will replicate the unique sounds of the big day."

"The Great North Run is usually one of the biggest events in our calendar, each year we have many people running for local charitable causes and this can still go ahead thanks to the the organisers of this event.

“If it becomes possible we would try and have a real event. In the meantime, keep training and looking for sponsorship and raise money for local causes who need your support more at this time than ever before."