Sunshine and spectators came out in full force for this year’s record-breaking Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon.

Mayor of Ipswich Glen Chisholm did the honours of sounding the horn to kick off the race in Christchurch Park this morning.

There were 1,825 runners taking part in the seventh event of its kind, which makes it the most successful to date.

Lisa Wortley was running as part of a corporate team with Birketts Solicitors based in Ipswich.

She said: “I was talked into it because they needed another person on the team.

“It’s just a personal challenge and the atmosphere is great. It’s lovely weather today, which is a bonus.”

David Chambers, 28, was taking on the Ipswich Half Marathon for the second year running.

He said: “I’m hoping to beat my time but If I don’t it’s not the end of the world, I just do it to take part.”

Mr Chambers said he wished the weather would be a little bit cooler, but was glad it wasn’t raining.

Amanda Gardiner and Natasha Green were on the track-side along with their children waiting to catch a glimpse of husbands Nigel and Dennis.

Mrs Gardiner said: “It’s perfect weather for us but maybe a little bit warm for them. It’s a really lovely setting for it and it is a great day for the kids.”

Runner Louise Amos had a full family of support for her by the start line in the shape of mum Sally, dad Tony, sister Nina and four-year-old nephew Connor.

Nina said: “She’s been training really hard, she’s had lots going on but still managed to get ready for it.

“We are going to be here right to the end, she will do it!”

Susie Hood, manager at race sponsor Larking Gowen, said the team was already looking forward to putting on another event of this size next year.

She added: “It’s fantastic, we’ve had a maximum number of entries and the support has been phenomenal.

“The weather is great, it’s probably too warm for the runners but it’s dry so we can’t ask for much more than that.”