A free event devoted to all things green attracted the committed, the caring and the curious to a north Norfolk stately home at the weekend.

Thousands flocked to the annual Green Build at the National Trust's Felbrigg Hall, near Cromer.

Among a packed arena of commercial and community enterprises were stands promoting solar panels, wind farms, living roofs, heat pumps, wood-burning stoves and insulation, plus handmade pottery and basketwork, and homemade food.

The two-day event, which has been running for seven years, attracted up to 7,000 people; a similar number to last year, according to Nick Baker, strategic director - environment, with organisers North Norfolk District Council.

The event included the annual presentation of environment awards to the district's top green schemes.

Mr Baker said a major talking point for visitors had been how to cut escalating energy bills.

He added: 'Energy-saving is no longer just seen as a nice thing to do. It's seen as essential.'

This year's event saw a record 66 exhibitors, talks and demonstrations on subjects as diverse as organic vegetable growing, and electric bikes, 14 farmers' market stalls and eight children's entertainers.

Sponsors Kier, the company which took over the district's waste-collection services in April, parked their large 'Dumpy' dustcart near the entrance and children queued to sit in the driver's cab.

Youngsters went home from Green Build with crafts created from recycled plastic bottles and paper while adults were each able to collect three free sacks of compost as they left the site.