A proud primary school has congratulated an eight-year-old who won the Junior Great North Run Mini Race.

Theo Barker, who is in year four at the Applegarth School in Northallerton, ran the 1,200m race around the Newcastle Gateshead Quayside in a time of 4.17 earlier this month.

He is used to taking part in Park Runs which are 2,000m, and said the reason he ran such a quick time is because he thought he was doing the longer distance and wanted to get a good head start. The race was over before he knew it.

His parents, family, friends and school community are said to be very proud of him, while his coach, Glen Hilton said: "He’s a very talented young man. It is a fantastic achievement and he’s got a very bright future in athletics."

Kate Maxwell, Applegarth headteacher, added: "I am thrilled that we have such a talent within our school community and hope that Theo continues to follow his passion for sport. He is an excellent role model to others – a true sportsman."

Another former Applegarth pupil, Marc Scott, came second in the elite men's race at the Great North Run the day after Theo's success, having won the race in 2021.