A runner in the Great North Run says she was racially abused by a section of spectators.

In a video on Instagram,, external running coach Emma Kirk-Odunubi said the incident happened at about the nine-mile mark of the 13.1-mile route from Newcastle to South Shields on Sunday.

She said she noticed England flags while passing through a residential area before hearing people shout: “Protect our kids. Protect our England.”

“And as I went past them next to the roundabout, they booed me,” Kirk-Odunubi said.

“People always say don’t let running get political. When I am being booed because of the colour of my skin… I’ve been running for 10 years and never have I come across that in my life – ever.”

She said it was her “worst experience” during a race and that “hate has no place in running”.

“This is racism in a space where it should not be,” Kirk-Odunubi told BBC Sport.

Kirk-Odunubi said organisers had contacted her and discussions were ongoing.

A spokesperson said GNR was “shocked and saddened” by the incident.

A statement read: “We do not condone behaviour of this nature and we truly believe the event is for everyone.

“Over 200,000 people turned out in support. It’s a real shame that a small subset have spoilt Emma’s experience.

“We are in touch with Emma to understand more about what happened and will be passing on all information to the local police.

“We are working with local authorities and the emergency services to understand more about what has happened, and we will of course be taking learnings from this incident to try and mitigate this happening at future events.”

An estimated 63,000 runners took part in the race – the world’s biggest half marathon – including Prime Minister Andy Burnham, fitness coach Joe Wicks and former footballer and pundit Chris Kamara.

Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei won the elite women’s race and American Zouhair Talbi the men’s.

The Great North Run is in its 45th year and raises about £25m for charity each year.