Pupils from a primary school in Kilburn were a runaway success as they joined thousands of children at a half marathon ending in Wembley Stadium.

Runners from Kilburn Park School in Malvern Road, enjoyed selfie shots with athletics sensation Perri Shakes-Drayton who sounded the start klaxon at the Vitality North London Half Marathon yesterday.

As well as the adults’ race, 1,250 school children from Brent and Barnet completed their Schools Challenge distance of 13.1 miles by running their final mile starting and finishing in Wembley Stadium.

The youngsters had been running a mile a week for 12 weeks leading up to the event and then enjoyed the opportunity to run their final mile in front of family, friends, teachers and the local community who cheered them on.

Ms Shakes-Drayton, an elite British 400m hurdles and sprint athlete, said: “I love local running events like this. The atmosphere is fantastic and it’s a joy to see so many people of different ages and abilities come together to enjoy running.

“The elite runners are truly talented and it’s a privilege to see them run but it’s just as rewarding to see club runners and casual runners taking part too, especially youngsters. The Schools Challenge is great for children to aspire to and they will remember this amazing experience running in Wembley Stadium.

“I felt honoured to be asked to officially start both races and the vibe, energy and enjoyment reminds me why I got involved in athletics.

“It’s been a great occasion and I hope that all those who took part will continue to run for fun and fitness and set themselves a new goal.”

Neville Koopowitz, CEO of Vitality, the title sponsor of the Vitality Run Series, said: “We are delighted to see so many runners take part in the Vitality North London Half Marathon, it was a superb turnout.”