Ogbeta, a politics and quantitative methods student who set a British under-23 indoor record of 13.65 metres in Arena Birmingham, was helping to boost the numbers by signing up to be part of the University's "Purple Wave" of runners by wearing the purple technical running t-shirt they all receive on registration.

The internationally renowned 10 kilometre run will be staged for the 16th time, with the day also including a half marathon in the heart of the English city.

Last year nearly 2,500 university staff, students and alumni took part, forming their own purple wave as they set off with their own starting time.

Though Ogbeta will be competing in a triple event competition on the day of the race, she's a proud supporter of the project.

"The Great Manchester Run is a brilliant event; anything which gets people out and exercising can only be a good thing," she said.

"The Purple Wave is totally unique.

"As far as I know, no other University has its own wave.

"I urge all students, staff and alumni to register and get involved - you'll have a brilliant time."

Also taking part in the launch was staff member Mike Addelman, a media officer, who will be running with a mechanical heart valve and had three bouts of surgery in the past 14 months.

The University's Head of Sport Vicky Ackerley said: "In just three years the Purple Wave has gone from a crazy idea to an established annual mass participation event for The University of Manchester community.

"We are currently the only organisation to have our very own starting wave, and hold the record for the largest entry.

"Whether a seasoned runner, or a complete beginner looking to improve your health and wellbeing, this event provides the opportunity to be part of something really special and raise the profile of our University."