Organisers of the Ipswich Twilight Road Races believe they are quickly building a strong national reputation to attract top stars in the future.

Ipswich Star: The Ipswich Twilight Road Races - Chris Thompson moments before winning the 5k elite race, 2016.The Ipswich Twilight Road Races - Chris Thompson moments before winning the 5k elite race, 2016.

Just over 1,200 runners took part in the sold-out event on Friday last week. It was around 300 more than last year’s inaugural event.

The Twilight Road Races feature elite and mass participation races. Team GB runner Chris Thompson, who won a 10,000m silver medal behind Mo Farah at the 2010 European Championships, won the elite 5k race.

Race director Carl Ashton, of Ipswich JAFFA Running Club, said: “It was an overwhelming success. We have received lots of positive feedback from runners and spectators about the event.

“What is nice about the Twilight races is that there are two very different races in one event. The 5k is aimed at fast runners and we are fast growing a good reputation on a national level which will help to bring the best UK athletes to the town.

“The 10k is aimed at all abilities and has a great community feel about it.

“We are now keen to grow the event. We are already planning for next year and are looking for ways to add value to the races, whether that be through additional income support or by local companies providing goods and services to help enhance the experience for runners.

“We are modestly increasing our race capacity, although we expect the race to sell out again in 2017, with entries already open.”

The Ipswich Building Society event is run by Ipswich JAFFA. Ipswich Borough Council and Suffolk New College help the event.

Mr Ashton said the event boosts the town, saying: “A number of the runners came from outside Suffolk, spending money on hotels, restaurants and shopping.”