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WATCH IT NOW: The Leeds 10k, 2008. Reporter: David Behrens
SUPERHEROES, soldiers, club athletes, fundraisers and fun-runners - they came in their thousands to take part in this year's Leeds10k.
Cheered on by friends and loved ones, they ran, wheeled and walked around the city's streets for the second Jane Tomlinson's Run for All.
Many will have taken part in the inaugural Run for All but for others it was their first competitive event, a chance to raise money and awareness for charity.
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Notable among this year's entrants were Edward Thomas, a pupil at Oulton Primary School, in Leeds, who has cerebral palsy. The nine-year-old, who was dressed up as a clown, walked much of the route on crutches with the help of caretaker Jason Westmoreland.
Out to better his time from last year was Andrew Bayston, who also has cerebral palsy, and was raising money for Jane's Appeal. Last year, he completed the course on crutches in a time of two hours and 55 minutes.
Representing the armed services were members of the Dragoon Guards, and there was also an American team from Menwith Hill in North Yorkshire.
Mike Tomlinson said his wife would have been delighted at today's turnout and the atmosphere.
"She would have been absolutely thrilled," he said. "The emotions won't kick in until later when people are finishing.
"It's an incredible sight. People put so much effort into making it a carnival atmosphere.
"There's no getting away from it, this is exactly what Jane wanted as a legacy. It's a massive fundraising opportunity for so many charities. We can't change the world but we can make a difference to people's lives."
First across the line in the men's race was one of the Ethiopian elite athletes, Ayele Mergessa, in a time of 30.48. Leading the field for the women was Ethiopian Roman Gesse who crossed the line in 36.45.
Taking second and third spot for the men were Joshua Whitehead in 34.06 and James Kovacs in 34.54. Pauline Munro was second in the women's competition, in 38.57, with Lisa Mawer taking third place in 39.39.
A host of celebrities and elite runners also took part, including Leeds model Nell McAndrew, Emmerdale actor Matthew Wolfenden and former rugby player Tim Stimpson.
But it is the ordinary men and women, many with extraordinary stories, who made this year's Run for All truly memorable.
Competing for a host of good causes, it is they who have taken up the gauntlet from Jane Tomlinson, the fundraising campaigner who lost her fight against cancer in September.
Her son Steven set the runners off on the course, counting down and waving a Yorkshire white rose flag. The 10-year-old was supported by elder sister Suzanne, 23, who was one of the army of race marshalls, and Rebecca, 20, who took part.
The event, the biggest organised race in Yorkshire, is sponsored by Morrisons and Sir Ken Morrison was among the official starting party.
Last year the event raised over £500,000 for charity and following its huge success received high acclaim, including winning the Best New Event at the Runner's World Personal Best Awards 2008.
Among the good causes that will be helped by this year's Leeds 10k are those supported by Jane's Appeal, including Macmillan Cancer Relief, SPARKS, Damon Runyon Cancer Research, Yorkshire Cancer Centre, Martin House Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice and Hannah House.
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YOUR MESSAGES:
Karen Dutton, by email: "My husband and I read both of Jane's books on holiday last June and said we would do this race. When she passed away we were even more determined to do so.
"After driving for 9 hours to reach Leeds with a 7 month old baby in the back on the car, we were absolutely thrilled and moved to be part of such a wonderful race. Jane is our hero - and she sure made a difference in our life. What a brilliant weekend!"
Sylvia Ross, runner - 7684: "My first "Run for All" and I was proud, yet humble to have taken part in a totally moving and heartwarming event. With all the bad news around these days how wonderful to be amongst 12000 people with one aim - to save lives.
"Jane must surely have been smiling down. And best wishes to Mike, Rebecca, Suzanne and Steven, it must have been so poignant for them all."
By email: "After a weekend of fundraising Anstey Galleries owner, Katie Herridge, has raised £2,850 for Macmillan Cancer Support. Katie raised the money by organising an original art prize draw at her gallery and then by running in the Leeds 10km in honour of her late cousin who lost her battle with cancer five years ago."
By email: "Well done to the Yorkshire Post team: Carole Clarkson, Carly Hall, Lisa Murdoch, Gill Robertson, Jason Taylor, Rebecca Stubbs, Andrew Bradley, Sarah Williams, Lisa Bradbury and Donna Lattimer."
Babs and Debs, by email: My first ever 10km run. What a day - I was up all night, couldn't sleep, felt sick. But what a day, I can't say anymore. I did it in 1hr 18mins and 24secs - it was amazing but such a blur, I can't even remember the route. I need to do it again next year and take it all in. Truly amazing and I raised £600 for Martin House - WOW"
By email: "Husband and wife, Scott & Julia Malloch from Methley took part in today's 10k run. Julia ran in last year's event and inspired Scott to take up the challenge for this year. Together they have raised over £700 for Macmillan Cancer Support and Jane's Appeal. Julia and Scott were supported at the event by daughter Kirsty, son James and Scott's mother Ann."
Alison Taylor - Runner 7458 By email: "I have just completed the Leeds 10k and want to thank every single person who was there for making this a poignant but inspirational day. I think Steven Tomlinson's idea to have a Mexican wave for all the runners was excellent and is something that we should do every year. It was heartening to see even more people running this year. You all did something really special today.
"A personal thanks to Isobel Chattoe and her family for making me an inspirational banner and cheering me on. I shall enjoy having you in my class at Crossflatts Primary next year, Isobel."
John Wood, Runner 06374, by email: "My name is John Wood I am 41, unfit, bad knees but going to do this run for the national autistic society as my 12yr old son has aspergers syndrome.
"I hope to raise approximately £1000 and make people aware of the charity and of the condition. Good luck to everyone."
By email: "Good Luck to Adrian & Jonny Love Belinda xx"
By text: "Go, Kathe Rooney go! Wooohoo! My little athlete!! xxx"
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