Hundreds of foamy fundraisers took on a sudsy obstacle course in Ipswich’s Christchurch Park yesterday.

A spot of afternoon rain couldn’t wipe the grins from the faces of the already-soaked participants, raising funds for St Elizabeth Hospice.

It was the first Bubble Rush event to be staged in the county – and organisers hope it will become a fixture on the fundraising calendar.

Sponsored runners began the five-kilometre route showered in a generous covering of foam, before passing through four locally-sponsored checkpoints with different coloured bubbles, and reaching the finish line coated from head-to-toe.

An events village featured entertainment compered by Town 102’s Wayne Bavin, including Disney princesses from One Wish Entertainment, an inflatable slide, bouncy castle, and a selfie tent for families to snap a souvenir.

Joanne Rodger, events and challenges fundraiser for the hospice, which provides free palliative and end-of-life care to people across east Suffolk, said the event was “full of smiles, laughter and fun”. “More than 1,600 people took part, with lots coming along to sign up on the day,” she added.

“Bubble Rush events are becoming a popular fundraiser for hospices across the country. We hope ours can become a regular one, too.

“We asked everyone to raise at least £13. At the end of the race, they each received a t-shirt and a medal.

“We’re sure we’ve met a lot of new supporters, as well as welcoming back others who have participated in other events, including two marathon runners.” A total of £27,000 was raised for the charity on the day. The money will go towards helping improve life for people with a progressive illness such as cancer, motor neurone disease and heart failure.

Miss Rodger thanked participants and volunteers who helped at the event with registration, marshalling the route and handing out medals.

Find out about St Elizabeth Hospice’s calendar of events at www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/events