THEY ALL helped to make London 2012 one of the most successful Olympics of all time.

And now, Suffolk’s Olympians and torch bearers have had their hard work recognised with a homecoming celebration in Ipswich.

A civic reception was held at Endeavour House to celebrate their achievements before they took part in a lap of honour at Portman Road ahead of Town’s game against Blackburn Rovers.

Tennis player Elena Baltacha, who lives in the town, said: “I just can’t put it into words what it was like to be part of something that amazing. It’s something I’ll remember for the rest of my life.”

Hockey player George Pinner, a former Ipswich School pupil, added: “I went with no expectations but from the word go it has been amazing. I think the British public were what made it.”

Community leaders and Town chief executive Simon Clegg saluted the work of the torch bearers and Olympians before they headed to Portman Road where they were cheered on by thousands of fans.

Lowestoft’s boxing bronze medallist Anthony Ogogo, added: “I feel really proud to be part of the team and to be able to contribute to the medal haul – I feel honoured and humbled.

“Even to get invited to this and to walk on the pitch, I’m just over the moon.

“People are getting active again and getting back into sport. If that can continue, it’s going to be really good for the country.”