Great North Run

astley have been working with the Great North Run organisers for over 10 years now, manufacturing, maintaining and storing the famous Great North Run sign for each yearly event.

When the sponsors of the race change, it’s our job to ensure that the sign is updated and installed in time. Our production facility at Gateshead is the perfect location for the management of this project with installation being a key challenge to overcome each year. Installation teams have to work at height over several nights in order to achieve as little disruption as possible to the users of the bridge and surrounding areas.

Once installed, thousands of visitors to the city enjoy having their photo taken in front of this sign with it regularly appearing all over social media on the lead up to the event.

Each year, once taken down, it’s then our job to address any damage that may have occurred during it’s use, make good and then store for the following year.

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10 Years in the running!

With 2023 marking the 42nd year of the iconic half marathon, it also marked the 10th year of Astley installing signage onto the iconic Tyne Bridge. Each year our experienced and skilled workforce is challenged both physically and technically when undertaking the prestigious Great North Run sign, and from the planning through to installation, it is an incredible feat.

We are always so proud to be responsible for the sign that is a symbol of not only the power of running, but also a symbol of sheer determination and the strength of community within the North East. Each year it is an incredible achievement to see the sign take centre stage as it overlooks the Quayside and brings with it a sense of anticipation. Working closely with Newcastle City Council and Gateshead Council, our teams at Astley ensure that the structural design and all elements of health and safety are of the highest quality prior to installation.The logistics of traffic management when fixing the sign on the bridge is a challenge in itself, with the bridge having to complete lane closures throughout the night over a 5-day period. Using high-level access equipment, our brave crew then face heights of 16.5 metres to reach the first fixing points - a task not for the faint-hearted!

Click Here to watch our latest installation!

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