The UK's Green leader and only Green MP visited Norwich today and criticised planned cuts to sports facilities in Norwich.

Caroline Lucas visited a number of places in the city as part of Norwich Green Party's local election campaign.

The MP for Brighton Pavilion first visited the University of East Anglia, where she met students to answer their questions.

Dr Lucas then went on to visit Wensum Lodge in King Street, where the Lincoln Ralphs sports hall has been closed - bar the squash courts - due to Norfolk County Council cuts.

She said: 'It is a really important community hub. We are supposed to stay fit, and it gives young people something to do.' She addressed Green Councillors, candidates and local residents about the importance of community campaigning to protect local services.

The day finished with a public meeting at Chantry Hall, just off Theatre Street, next to the Assembly Rooms, about the topic of political reform, where she called for the modernisation of Parliament. She also expressed her support for a yes vote in the referendum on electoral reform, taking place on May 5. Around 200 people were present and Ian Gibson, former Labour MP for Norwich North, also took part in the meeting.

Described as a 'packed' question time, Dr Lucas said: 'There were lots of good questions and debates.'

Adrian Ramsay, deputy leader of the Green Party and a Norwich councillor, said: 'I'm delighted that Caroline is visiting Norwich to support our campaigns to protect crucial public services. We are currently supporting groups campaigning to protect the Unthank Family Centre, the Wensum Lodge sports hall and many other important local services.'

Dr Lucas added: 'It was really interesting and really helpful talking to local people about their campaigns.'

Norwich Green Party currently holds 14 seats on Norwich City Council, compared with 16 Labour councillors.