Do you remember trekking through muddy fields on cross country runs?

Today we're looking back at the sport in the 1970s, 80s and 90s.

East Anglian Daily Times: Leiston Hiigh School cross country runners in March 1981Leiston Hiigh School cross country runners in March 1981 (Image: Archant)

Cross country has been a key part of games lessons for decades, helping students keep fit and get lots of fresh air.

East Anglian Daily Times: Essex police's cross country run at Danbury in April 1982Essex police's cross country run at Danbury in April 1982 (Image: Archant)

But, while some youngsters love to get out of the classroom and into the open air, others may not be quite so keen on running, especially in the cold and wet.

East Anglian Daily Times: A cross country run by pupils from Thurleston School in Ipswich in 1972A cross country run by pupils from Thurleston School in Ipswich in 1972 (Image: Archant)

Our gallery features photos of school events as well as Suffolk schools cross country races, where the best young runners in the county battled it out.

East Anglian Daily Times: cc (Image: Archant)

Of course, adults also take part in the sport, and our gallery features an Essex police cross country run.

East Anglian Daily Times: Runners taking part in Suffolk schools cross country in 1980Runners taking part in Suffolk schools cross country in 1980 (Image: Archant)

If these photos bring back memories, email judy.rimmer@archant.co.uk To order photos, visit our website or call Diane Townsend on 01603 772449.

East Anglian Daily Times: Suffolk schools cross country runners in 1985Suffolk schools cross country runners in 1985 (Image: Archant)

East Anglian Daily Times: West Suffolk schools cross country championships in February 1975West Suffolk schools cross country championships in February 1975 (Image: Archant)