THE Olympic Games should be in full swing by now.

The world-famous sporting extravaganza was due to get underway in Tokyo on Friday.

However, due to the covid-19 outbreak, that did not happen and the Games were postponed for the first time in their history.

They will now take place next July instead.

While bitterly disappointing, it gives us a chance to reflect on success from yesteryear and perhaps the best example with a north Essex flavour was the triumph of sailing duo Reg White, from Brightlingsea, and brother-in-law John Osborne, at the 1976 Montreal Olympics.

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The pair won gold medals in the Tornado class and were rightly treated to a heroes' reception when they returned to Colchester.

Alf Jefferies' wonderful pictures show the pair being paraded during the town's military tattoo, with crowds lining the streets to show their respect and acknowledge their achievements.

Alf's pictures have been reproduced with kind permission of his daughter, Lynn Ballard.

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Were you there or do you have other fascinating pictures from yesteryear to share with our readers?

If so, we'd love to hear from you.

We're keen to include more nostalgia features in our papers and online but need your help.

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Whether it's school class photos, pictures with friends in a sports team or powerful images of a certain occasion, nostalgia is a very special emotion.

Does the word conjure up memories of a certain event - a gathering of people sharing a moment in time?

Have you seen Colchester United play at Wembley, did you usher in the millennium in Colchester or have you paraded along the town's High Street or taken part in Clacton Carnival?

Perhaps you have special memories of working with friends and colleagues in a particular building, office or factory.

Do you remember the day Culver Square opened or did you work in a pub or shop from yesteryear, like Woolworths or C&A?

If so, send us your photos and details.

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

Maldon and Burnham Standard: