"This is a race I have always wanted to compete in and I'm really looking forward to running as it has a worldwide reputation for not only the quality but also the fantastic size of the field, " added Gebrselassie.

BBC: Haile Gebrselassie to make Great North Run debut

It wanted another EMI hit, "I Remember You" by Frank Ifield, which was a monster smash worldwide at the time.

NPR: The Rise and Fall of Vee-Jay Records