Since 1985 the kind-hearted residents of Suffolk have been taking part in muddy tug-o-wars, sitting in baths full of beans and wearing red noses all in the name of charity.

East Anglian Daily Times: A muddy tug of war in Melton back in 1989A muddy tug of war in Melton back in 1989 (Image: Archant)

The Comic Relief charity was founded in 1985 on the back of the success of Live Aid. It was officially launched live on BBC One on Christmas Day.

East Anglian Daily Times: A muddy tug of war in Melton back in 1989A muddy tug of war in Melton back in 1989 (Image: Archant)

The idea evolved and in 1988 the first ever Red Nose Day was launched - a fundraising marathon that saw more than 150 celebrities and comedians come together to encourage us all to donate to this worthy appeal. School children and work colleagues in Suffolk also joined the action, hosting their own fundraisers.

East Anglian Daily Times: Staff at Hollywood's nightclub placing a large red ball at the top of the club to celebrate Red Nose Day 1989Staff at Hollywood's nightclub placing a large red ball at the top of the club to celebrate Red Nose Day 1989 (Image: Archant)

The event returned in 1989 and now Red Nose Day takes place every other year, with Sport Relief held in alternate years.

East Anglian Daily Times: Fancy dress and pies for Red Nose Day 1988. Staff at Contship in Ipswich getting involved for charityFancy dress and pies for Red Nose Day 1988. Staff at Contship in Ipswich getting involved for charity (Image: Archant)

The day culminates in a night of entertainment, fronted by some of the biggest names in comedy, TV and music - including Suffolk’s Ed Sheeran this year.

East Anglian Daily Times: Staff at Contship in Ipswich, celebrating Red Nose Day, 1988Staff at Contship in Ipswich, celebrating Red Nose Day, 1988 (Image: Archant)

Since its inception Red Nose Day has raised more than £1billion which has been spread among good causes here in the UK and further afield in Africa by the Comic Relief team.

East Anglian Daily Times: Sean Oliver taking a dip in the River Gipping for Red Nose Day, 1989Sean Oliver taking a dip in the River Gipping for Red Nose Day, 1989 (Image: Archant)

This year’s event takes place on Friday, March 24 and as you prepare for your comedy fundraising challenges we thought you might like to see these pictures from events held back in the 1980s.

East Anglian Daily Times: Sean Oliver taking a dip in the River Gipping for Red Nose Day, 1989Sean Oliver taking a dip in the River Gipping for Red Nose Day, 1989 (Image: Archant)

East Anglian Daily Times: Two Bridges playgroup celebrating Red Nose Day in 1988Two Bridges playgroup celebrating Red Nose Day in 1988 (Image: Archant)

Tell us about your Red Nose Day fundraising

Get in contact with our picture desk if you recognise anyone in the pictures.

If you would like to find out more about donating money to the charity, click here.