A total of 600 runners from a range of industries took to the tarmac for the popular five kilometre team challenge which was started by Cool FM presenter Pete Snodden and a ceremonial water cannon salute.

The Simon Community was selected as the charity partner for the sold-out event, which is now in its fourth year.

Danske Bank took the prize for the fastest female team, with Ulster Bank claiming the men’s prize and new entrants Towerview Primary School winning the fastest mixed team category.

Richard Gillan, managing partner of Grant Thornton in Northern Ireland, said: “I would like to thank all our participants for supporting the Grant Thornton Runway Run and raising vital funds for the Simon Community which provides much-needed support for local people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness.”

The 2018 Grant Thornton Runway Run was officially started by Cool FM presenter, Pete Snodden, who provided the soundtrack in the terminal for runners as they prepared for the race.

Brian Shanks, corporate partnerships manager at Simon Community NI, added: “Through fun and innovative events such as the Runway Run, we are confident that the issue of homelessness will gain greater exposure and encourage more organisations to support our vision of a society where everyone has a home.”

Run in partnership with Athletics Ireland and Athletics Northern Ireland, the Grant Thornton Runway Run is open to all businesses and organisations in Northern Ireland.