A year after its opening, crossing the Orwell Bridge was the highlight for runners taking part in a marathon and half-marathon around the town.

Ipswich Star: Cars were still able to use roads as normal even with a marathon being run round the townCars were still able to use roads as normal even with a marathon being run round the town

The event was held in 1983 with runners getting the chance to cross the new bridge twice as they headed for the finish line at the Ransomes Europark.

Ipswich Star: Cars were still able to use roads as normal even with a marathon being run round the townCars were still able to use roads as normal even with a marathon being run round the town

The race itself saw 501 runners complete the distance with 31 of those completing the event in under three hours.

Ipswich Star: Cars were still able to use roads as normal even with a marathon being run round the townCars were still able to use roads as normal even with a marathon being run round the town

As can be spotted in our photos, the winner was about to cross the line in just under two and a half hours.

Ipswich Star: Cars were still able to use roads as normal even with a marathon being run round the townCars were still able to use roads as normal even with a marathon being run round the town

Unlike today, health and safety back in the 1980s was not so strict – with the route not fully closed off to normal traffic, so runners had to contend with oncoming vehicles going about their normal journeys.

Ipswich Star: Cars were still able to use roads as normal even with a marathon being run round the townCars were still able to use roads as normal even with a marathon being run round the town

Did you run in the inaugural Ipswich marathon or half marathon? Get in touch with your memories via email.

Ipswich Star: Cars were still able to use roads as normal even with a marathon being run round the townCars were still able to use roads as normal even with a marathon being run round the town