MORE than 650 runners have today completed the first half marathon in Ipswich for two decades.The athletes were exhausted yet elated after finishing the 13.1mile course.

MORE than 650 runners have today completed the first half marathon in Ipswich for two decades.

The athletes were exhausted yet elated after finishing the 13.1 mile course across the town, which started at 9am and finished at Northgate Sports Centre, Sidegate Lane West.

The first five men and first five women to cross the finishing line in the Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon were presented with a certificate at the winner's podium by dignitaries, including the Mayor of Ipswich David Goldsmith and leader of Ipswich Borough Council, Elizabeth Harsant.

The first person to cross the finishing line in a wheelchair was Brian Alldis from Bury St Edmunds, who completed the challenge in 52 minutes.

The winner of the men's race was Adrian Mussett, who finished in 1hr 10mins, and the first woman to cross the line was Sarah Stradling in 1hr 19mins. Both are from the Colchester Harriers.