Hundreds of runners are today counting down the hours to the start of the Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon.

More than 1,700 participants are expected to pound the streets of Ipswich during tomorrow’s event, which has a new route including a longer town section.

The 13.1mile challenge, which is organised by Ipswich Jaffa running club, with the borough council, also has a new start time of 10am. It will begin and end at Christchurch Park.

Speaking earlier this year, race director Carl Ashton, of Ipswich Jaffa, said: “We’ve taken on board feedback from last year to simplify the course with a more direct route to the finish at the mansion.

“Adding a section in the town centre gives more opportunity for us to show off the town and we are hoping that this will lead to more spectators coming out to support the runners.”

The race itself takes in town landmarks including Ipswich Museum, the Town Hall and Ancient House.

Bryony Rudkin, borough council culture and leisure portfolio-holder, said: “The Ipswich Half Marathon has gone from strength to strength, year on year and it again promises to be a great spectacle both for those participating or those cheering the runners on.

“Entry numbers have eclipsed previous years and we expect that those who are cheering and supporting runners along the route will be larger than previous years.

“The strong relationship between the partners and sponsors, including Larking Gowen, Jaffa and Ipswich Borough Council is the reason the event is such a success.”

Thousands of youngsters will also be getting into the running spirit ahead of the race as the GO Run For Fun campaign returns to Suffolk. This year, Suffolk will play host to a total of four GO Run For Fun events culminating in the Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon.

Visit www.ipswichhalfmarathon.co.uk for more information.

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