Fisons was one of the largest companies in Suffolk for many years – but disappeared from the scene in the 1990s.

Ipswich Star: The old Fisons factory in Paper Mill Lane, Ipswich. Picture: Barry PullenThe old Fisons factory in Paper Mill Lane, Ipswich. Picture: Barry Pullen (Image: BAZ)

It had been founded as a fertilised company in Victorian times as Edward Packard and Sons – but after buying James Fison and Co from Thetford in 1919 it became Packard and Fison.

Ipswich Star: Fisons held a fete in Ipswich in 1965Fisons held a fete in Ipswich in 1965 (Image: Archant)

In 1942 the name was shortened to Fisons, and for the next 40 years it was a leading fertiliser and peat manufacturer – branching out into pharmaceuticals.

Ipswich Star: Fisons employees holding a meeting as they strike in 1972Fisons employees holding a meeting as they strike in 1972 (Image: Archant)

In 1982 the fertiliser business was sold to Norsk Hydro and the company concentrated on pharmaceuticals.

Ipswich Star: Fisons employees holding a meeting as they strike in 1972Fisons employees holding a meeting as they strike in 1972 (Image: Archant)

During the 1980s the company was one of the largest pharmaceutical giants in Britain making asthma drugs – and it was listed on the Stock Exchange.

Ipswich Star: Fisons recognising long-serving employees in 1973Fisons recognising long-serving employees in 1973 (Image: Archant)

Although the company’s products were not manufactured in Ipswich the company’s headquarters remained at Princes Street in the town.

Ipswich Star: Awarding employees for their outstanding service at Fisons in 1971Awarding employees for their outstanding service at Fisons in 1971 (Image: Archant)

Fisons were the main sponsors of Ipswich Town from 1986 to 1995.

Ipswich Star: The winners of an inter-firm hockey 7s final for Fisons in 1974The winners of an inter-firm hockey 7s final for Fisons in 1974 (Image: Archant)

The former Fisons fertiliser departments continued to make products at Levington and at Paper Mill Lane at Bramford, but those wound down several years ago.