Curvy clubgoers and those who love them will have a place to strut their stuff thanks to Norwich's first larger ladies night.

Tonight will see the launch of Big Girl's Paradise (BGP) at The Talk, a night which has seen storming success else where in England and if successful could become a regular feature on the city's night scene.

The idea was originated by founder Linda Koch 16 years ago, and has since spring up in places including London and Manchester. She said:

'I launched Big Girls Paradise sixteen years ago because I knew a lot of big women felt uncomfortable going out to conventional clubs.

'At BGP, the whole thinking is geared to generating an atmosphere convivial to those attending. Our hostesses, who we call our curvy kittens and paradise guys, make sure everyone is welcomed and, if they arrive on their own, introduced to other club-goers.

'No-one feels ostracised at BGP. Some women may come along to find a man, but plenty just want a good night out in an environment in which they can relax.'

And bringing the night, which also welcomes bigger men, to Norwich is local host Sara Bruce, of West Earlham.

She said that in the past she had done a lot for the community, including craft sales and a plus size fashion show, and knew what it could be like as a larger lady going into clubs and facing hassle.

Sara, 40, heard about the nights when in London, and they helped give her a confidence she previously lacked.

'I was around size 32 and I wasn't really going out much but I went there and it was absolutely fantastic, it gives everyone a confidence boost because everyone's in a similar situation and just having a boogey.

'Recently, because it's in London I've not been able to get down there except for on special occasions so we thought we could bring it to Norwich, and having done the promotions for it I'm nervous and excited about how it goes.'

Originally booked for the small room in the club, the night runs from 9pm till 2am and will now take over the whole venue, with 60 tickets also sent to RAF Lakenheath.

Sara, who stressed that the event was open to all sizes, was keen to add: 'This isn't about promoting obesity and saying it's great to be fat, because health wise it's not.

'It's about trying to give people a chance and say if you are big, or even if you're trying to lose weight, just come along because it should be a great night.'

•Are you putting on an unusual event? Contact reporter John Owens on 01603 772439 or john.owens@archant.co.uk