Great North Run entrust local artist with design of iconic finisher t-shirt

The Great North Run's iconic finisher t-shirts will be designed by a popular Geordie artist this year.

James Dixon is being tasked with designing the graphics and incorporating "the lads, lasses and landmarks of the world's favourite half marathon".

The design is expected to celebrate the Great North's return to its iconic route and finish in South Shields after a change in finish location in 2021.

The route finished by Newcastle's Town Moor last time out due to Covid-19 reasons.

Dixon has created work for the likes of Little Mix's Jade Thirlwall and Greggs, as well as being heralded by local funnyman Chris Ramsey.

Speaking on being tasked with the Great North Run t-shirt design, James said: “This is such an exciting commission and it’s amazing for me personally to have the opportunity to celebrate an event that means so much to so many in the region and beyond.

“I’m a local lad from Northumberland and I’ve taken part in the Great North Run many times in memory of my Grandad, who passed away very young.

"I know how special all of the little elements are that make up the day.

“I hope this artwork will make runners smile and provide a keepsake that reminds them of the biggest celebration in the North East calendar every time they put it on.”

Marketing Director at The Great Run Company, Catherine Foster, said: “Working with James on our finishers t-shirt and medal this year is incredibly exciting.

“His work is synonymous with the region and we hope the finished product will be a brilliant keepsake for runners to remember how special it was to return to our finish line home in South Shields for the first time since 2019.”