It was a day filled with emotion for Dereham man Tim Warner who returned to complete Run Norwich a year after he died near the finish line.

Last year, Mr Warner suffered a heart attack just 200 metres from the line – and died for six minutes.

It was thanks to the quick-thinking of off-duty paramedic Dale Gedge that he is alive today – and on Sunday, the pair ran the race together.

Joined by family and one of his cardiology surgeons, Dr Ian Williams, Mr Warner said, after the race, that he was feeling 'very emotional'.

'I was just pleased to get over the finish line,' he said. 'We took it steady, and didn't do anything silly. I do feel proud, and relieved I suppose.

'This time last year I was in a hospital, and this year I'm able to drive home.

'I was also able to have a can of Ghost Ship at the end, which went down very well.'

He said he and Mr Gedge saw the race as an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

'If you come across anybody who you think has had a cardiac arrest, don't be afraid to have a go and help,' he said.

'There's nothing to lose – you could save someone's life and, if you don't, you can at least know you tried.'

Also among the runners was a group from the Norfolk and Norwich Association for the Blind (NNAB), which included Edward Bates, who is blind and ran with guide Kelvin Colbourn.

Thousands of spectators joined the streets, joining an army of dedicated volunteers to cheer on runners and encourage those flagging in the heat.

Nick Earl, from City of Norwich Athletics Club, crossed the finish line first with his trademark leap, with Ash Harrell and James Senior, also both from the club, coming in second and third places.

The winner of the women's race was Dani Nimmock, also from City of Norwich club, who claimed her first Run Norwich title.

She was followed by Leanne Finch and Jo Andrews.

About 7,000 people came together and braved the heat to take on the fourth Run Norwich.

The 10-kilometre course around Norwich city centre saw runners of all abilities take part, with many doing so on behalf of charities and clubs.