One of Norwich's most recognisable landmarks was today turned into a giant Christmas present as the city was praised for its generosity.

Norwich is the sixth most generous city in the UK, according to the charity Oxfam. People in the city have spent nearly �400,000 on buying Oxfam Unwrapped gifts to help people in need across the world over the last eight years.

This money has, among other things, paid for safe drinking water for thousands of people, fed families worldwide, trained teachers and educated children.

To celebrate, one of the lions outside City Hall was wrapped in festive paper. The event formed part of the Oxfam Unwrapped tour which has seen the charity's mascot Archie the Goat visit the 10 most generous towns and cities.

Ewan Davidson, deputy manager of the Oxfam shop in Magdalen Street, said: 'It's wonderful to know that Norwich is so behind our efforts to give people across the world the resources and skills to help their family and community overcome poverty.

'It's inspiring to know that despite the UK's own difficulties, people in Norwich continue to put their hands in their pockets to support the global community.'

Oxfam Unwrapped is largest range of charity gifts on the market and this year marks its eighth anniversary. The money raised through the gifts, which range from goats and farmyards to teachers and health workers, goes towards Oxfam's programme work in communities living in poverty around the world.

Jenny Lay, Lord Mayor of Norwich, pictured with Sheriff of Norwich Chris Higgins and Oxfam mascot Archie the Goat, said: 'To know that Norwich is one of the most generous cities in the whole of the UK is a wonderful early Christmas gift and I'm extremely proud that we are in Oxfam's poll.'