AN Ipswich athletics club is going back to its roots in an attempt to attract a new generation of members.Ipswich Jaffa club was founded in 1977 by a group of enthusiastic joggers.

AN Ipswich athletics club is going back to its roots in an attempt to attract a new generation of members.

Ipswich Jaffa club was founded in 1977 by a group of enthusiastic joggers. Its name stands for Jogging And Fitness For All.

During the last 30 years Jaffa has developed into one of the most successful athletics clubs in the area - but now it is hoping to once again attract those who are just starting to think about running.

It is running an eight-week course for beginners starting next Monday, June 4, in the hope of attracting a new group of fun-runners.

The sessions will be aimed at encouraging those who are looking for a new way to become fitter and will not be aiming to turn people into Olympic champions.

Club coach Paul Turner, who has worked with many beginners over the last 25 years, said the aim was firmly on encouraging people to have fun while improving their fitness.

He said: “We are not looking to do competitive running, it is solely aimed at fun and helping people to become fitter. We know some people might be put off coming to our normal sessions because they fear they could be shown up by other runners.”

The sessions will last from 7pm until 7.45pm and cost £1 each - which will be refunded if people later decide to join Ipswich Jaffa club.

The club itself is planning a big 30th birthday party later this year, and any former members who want to take part should contact the club at one of its regular meetings on Monday evenings.