York 10K returns this weekend - these photos from 17 years show why it’s special

The York 10k also features a Mini Run and Junior Run, making it a real family event. Picture from 2017.

The final countdown has begun to the date when thousands of people will take to the streets for this year’s Arla Protein York 10K.

The event has become a firm fixture in the city’s calendar and will be celebrating its 17th year when it takes place this Sunday, August 2.

Smiles for the camera as runners cross the start line back in 2017.

The Press has played a key role in promoting the York 10K since its inaugural race, sharing stories about participants many of whom have overcome huge health challenges, and capturing the atmosphere on the day as the city's streets become a blaze of colour.

So it seems timely to look back through our archives and celebrate the many people who have got involved over the decades.

The race was launched in 2009 by Jane Tomlinson's Run For All as part of the legacy of the late Jane Tomlinson, who raised nearly £2 million for charity by undertaking a series of gruelling challenges, despite being diagnosed with incurable cancer.

The race is on - lots of enthusiasm from young athletes in 2017.

Club runners, joggers and walkers have pounded the pavements and raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for good causes every year since - except when it was paused during the Covid pandemic.

Runners in fancy dress get the loudest cheers - like this fundraiser in 2017.

People of all ages and abilities take part and it has become a celebration of community spirit as well as personal bests and individual achievements.

Bernadette Oxberry, Sue Bonarius and Jan Janes running for St Leonard's Hospice in the York 10k 2016. Picture: Richard Doughty for The Press

(Image: The Press)

The crowds of spectators who line the route, alongside the army of volunteers who help runners before, during and after the event, reflect the strength of support for what has become one of the largest Run for All 10ks in the country.

So, if you're at a loose end this weekend why not soak up the atmosphere from the sidelines and cheer on the thousands of participants.