Runners from across the country descended on south east London today (Sunday, August 22) for the Vitality 'Big Half' Half marathon.

Originally scheduled for April 25, the event was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but got underway in style on Sunday amid mercifully cool and relatively dry weather. 

The course takes runners, many of whom are raising money for chosen charities, across a picturesque route from Tower Bridge through Greenwich to finish at the Cutty Sark.

In the women's 'elite' event, former champion Charlotte Purdue claimed her third win in the race, while Jake Smith was crowned the men's champion.

The event was filled with other headline names including former Olympic rowing champion James Cracknell and Eastenders star Actor Toby Alexander-Smith.

Below are a collection of some of the best photos taken of the event on Sunday.

News Shopper: Images: Aaron Chown/PA WireImages: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

News Shopper: Images: Aaron Chown/PA WireImages: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

News Shopper: Images: Aaron Chown/PA WireImages: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

News Shopper: Images: Aaron Chown/PA WireImages: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

News Shopper: Images: Aaron Chown/PA WireImages: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

News Shopper: Images: Aaron Chown/PA WireImages: Aaron Chown/PA Wire