Organisers of this year’s Orwell Walk were hailing the determination of participants after nearly 1,000 people took part despite torrential rain at the start of the event.

Ipswich Star: The Orwell Walk, Run and Cycle. Check point at Nacton ShoreThe Orwell Walk, Run and Cycle. Check point at Nacton Shore

People could walk, run or cycle from Ipswich to Felixstowe beside the River Orwell for the annual event organised by the Rotary Club of East Ipswich.

It was the 40th walk which gives participants the chance to raise money for their own charities as well as the Club’s own fundraising effort.

Organiser Stephanie Macintyre said: “It has been great. Despite the early weather we had had more than 800 people sign in by mid-morning and there are still more arriving. We won’t know the final totals until everything is counted up at the end.

“Ipswich Mayor Roger Fern came along and cycled the 14-mile course, then he went home and changed into his mayoral chain and cam to visit one of our checkpoints.

“All in all, it’s been a very good day despite the early rain.”

The event was sponsored by the East of England Co-op – and the money raised is expected to give a huge boost to many local