All eyes on Mellor as attention turns to Great North Run.

ATTE A NTION this weekend." turns to the roads and the Bupa Great North Run, firmly established as the world's greatest half marathon. Starting in Newcastle, the course takes in the iconic Tyne Bridge, goes through Gateshead, passing the famous international athletics stadium, and finishes in the coastal town of South Shields. Local interest comes in the form of Jonny Mellor, who hopes to improve on his 62:59 PB set in New York in 2012. The Liverpool Harrier finished second Brit last year, behind double Olympic and World champion Mo Farah, who will be again competing this year.

Mellor, who trains at the Underground Training Station in Hoylake, had the following advice to offer competitors leading up to the race. He said: "Keep training light and don't risk injuries or fatigue by trying to squeeze some last-minute miles in. "Have a good meal the night before the race and choose foods that you've eaten before a long run in the past. "Prepare your kit the day before to avoid rushing round on the morning of the race and pack appropriate clothes for the potential weather conditions. "Run in kit you feel comfortable in and have run in previously. "My tip for a healthy pre-race meal would be porridge and a banana, or alternatively something simple like jam on toast at least two hours before you start. "Remember to stay well hydrated leading up to the event. "Most of all enjoy the experience, you've put so much into preparing for this big day, so savour it and be proud of yourself " For further assistance with training contact Jonny direct at [email protected]