IPSWICH: Hundreds of runners helped to build a sporting legacy for Ipswich ahead the 2012 Olympics when they tackled a half marathon through the town.

The second Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon 2010 saw runners take on the 13.1-mile course yesterday.

Marathon runner Helen Decker and swimmer Karen Pickering MBE, a Team Ipswich ambassador, started the event, which raises money for St Elizabeth Hospice and Team Ipswich Sports Foundation.

It is a partnership between Larking Gowen Chartered Accountants, Ipswich JAFFA Running Club and Team Ipswich, which was set up to prepare Ipswich for the London Games.

Terry Back, race director and chairman of Ipswich JAFFA, said: “It’s great to see the event go forwards and upwards.

“There was a great atmosphere.”

n Don’t miss Wednesday’s Evening Star for a four-page special featuring results, pictures and in-depth coverage of the Larking Gowen Half Marathon