A group of volunteer gardeners rolled up their sleeves to refresh the entrance to one of the city's most iconic buildings.

Eastern Daily Press: Norwich City Volunteer Gardeners group tidying the flower beds at the from of City Hall.Picture: ANTONY KELLYNorwich City Volunteer Gardeners group tidying the flower beds at the from of City Hall.Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2016)

Two rectangular beds on either side of the entrance to Norwich's City Hall are passed by hundreds of people a day.

And for the last 20 years or so, the beds have been planted with a variety of colourful plants chosen not only to complement the building but, as perennials, most of which are drought resistant, for the low levels of maintenance and watering they need.

But the beds were in need of some refreshing and this caught the eye of gardener Sue Roe, from Norwich.

Mrs Roe, along with a team of 11 eleven gardeners – an informal group of enthusiasts known as Norwich City Volunteer Gardeners – approached the council with an offer to replant and maintain the beds.

Eastern Daily Press: Norwich City Volunteer Gardeners group tidying the flower beds at the from of City Hall.Picture: ANTONY KELLYNorwich City Volunteer Gardeners group tidying the flower beds at the from of City Hall.Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2016)

She said: 'We love Norwich as a city and feel lucky to live here. We know, however, that there just isn't enough money to do everything that makes the city look good, so as keen gardeners, we were keen to do our bit to spruce up such a well-loved area in the heart of the city that is seen by so many.

'We also hoped we could inspire others who're passionate about their local area but may be feeling it's not looked after as much as they like – why not have a go?'

The team started work this autumn with planting bulbs and tidying up the beds, which they will continue to do over the coming weeks.

And the bulk of the replanting work will be carried out in the spring, ready for summer.

When the group started work, they were approached by a passer-by who asked if they could join the group, so the team currently stands at 13 and would welcome others who may want to join.

In the past, they have won awards for work already done to restore the large rose bed at Norwich Railway Station.

Councillor Paul Kendrick, cabinet member for neighbourhoods added: 'We're incredibly grateful to the Norwich City Volunteer Gardeners for gifting their time and expertise to help make sure the entrance to City Hall is welcoming in this way.

'We know the building can appear imposing to some and so are keen on making it as approachable as possible. This is why things like this planting scheme and the Norwich BID sponsored Christmas projections are so valuable – things the community can enjoy – and especially as we face financial challenges and so may not be able to do everything we would like.'