Leading North East investment company Develop North PLC, who is helping to regenerate the North East of England, were delighted to be title sponsors of the inaugural HogmanHoway 5K event, organised by Events of the North, in partnership with the North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and Newcastle City Council.
The run saw almost 2,000 people of all ages and ability run together on closed roads around the city.
Starting and finishing at the Civic Centre, the route took in many local landmarks, and offered a new spectacle for revellers who were in Newcastle to see out the year.
Develop North PLC, managed by Newcastlebased fund management specialists, Tier One Capital, were honoured to play their part in making the event a success and making it happen.
Ian McElroy, chief executive Tier One Capital, and director of Develop North, said: “The inaugural HogmanHOWAY 5K was a fantastic success and a brilliant way to bring people together to welcome in the New Year.
“It was inspiring to see so many runners of all ages and abilities taking part and enjoying the energy and excitement of the city.
“We’re proud to have supported an event that celebrates Newcastle in such a positive, inclusive and active way, and which reflects the confidence, momentum and sense of community that continues to define the North East. Congratulations to everyone involved in delivering such a memorable landmark event.”
There was local success in the elite men’s race, with Scott Beattie of Morpeth Harriers taking the win in a time of 13 minutes and 59 seconds.
The elite race was followed by a mass start for the HogmanHOWAY 5K runners. Experienced club athletes were joined by fun runners and novices, including some who had taken on the challenge in order to start early with their new year’s resolution to get fit.
A lot of participants were raising funds for worthy causes, such as the event’s official charity partner, The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, part of Newcastle Hospitals Charity.
Event founder Steve Cram comments: “There was already a great party atmosphere in Newcastle, and the Develop North HogmanHOWAY 5K added energy and excitement to that.
“Staging the HogmanHOWAY 5K took a lot of hard work and coordination and we’re really grateful to Develop North, Mayor Kim McGuinness and the North East Combined Authority, Newcastle City Council, Northumbria University, Start Fitness and all of our volunteers for making it possible.
“I hope that everyone agrees that this was a positive way to wave goodbye to this year and get on the front foot for 2026!”
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, said: “What an incredible way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Newcastle – our region showcasing its renown community spirit and party atmosphere, and living up to our reputation as a host of world class events.
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