40,000 JOIN RACE TO SHOW UNITED FRONT
running it, watching it, or working it, here’s to the #greatmanchesterrun and our chance to show the resolve of this great city.”
And Ian McLellan, 45, said: “Stand united, don’t let them win, that’s why I’m doing it.”
Before the race Oasis’s hit Don’t Look Back In Anger was played over the loudspeaker system, sparking a mass sing-a-long.
Tributes
One Manchester United supporter said of the Noel Gallagherwritten tune: “Managing to sing a song by City fans as we begin. Miracles happen! “Don’t look back in anger.” Among those taking part were Coronation Street stars Sally Dynevor and Kym Marsh, comedian John Bishop, actress Denise Welch and Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.
Twitter was flooded with tributes to those taking part.
John Harvey messaged: “Good luck to everyone running the #GreatManchesterRun today. Whether running or watching, here’s to one message – TERROR WILL NEVER WIN.”
Another wrote: “Fantastic show of solidarity... truly a city pulling together.”
John Sinclair added: “The children’s run just passed. Choking back the tears.”
Many runners had worker bees painted onto their bodies.
The image represents the city’s hard-working reputation and has become a symbol of solidarity since the attack.
Insp Phil Spurgeon, of Greater Manchester Police, said: “It’s great to see so many people coming into the city centre to support events, enjoying everything this great city has to offer and showing that people are feeling safe.”