City schools took centre stage at the annual awards evening of Norwich in Bloom.

The event brought a busy and challenging year towards a close for the green-fingered members of the group. Prizes were also handed out to the winners of the various Norwich in Bloom competitions which have already been announced throughout the year.

The Friends of Norwich in Bloom held the annual presentation evening at the Assembly House, with Lord Mayor of Norwich Jenny Lay, Sheriff of Norwich Chris Higgins and Amy Massa from main sponsor Chapelfield Shopping Centre the special guests.

There was a double success for Magdalen Gates Preschool, on Bull Close Road, winning both the hanging baskets award and the best record and diary category.

Magdalen Gates Primary, based on the same site, claimed the best overall floral garden prize.

There was also a double success for City of Norwich School, with the flower garden and water wise awards, as there was for Larkman Primary, which claimed success in the fruit and vegetables and allotments categories.

The wildlife garden award went to George White Junior School, off Silver Road, and the composting category was won by Earlham Early Years. The best youth project, for ages four to 11, was claimed by Chapel Break Infants and the best school project, for ages 12-18, was won by Ormiston Victory Academy in Costessey.

Jo Chiddick, spokesman for The Friends of Norwich in Bloom, said 'These award ceremonies are very important because this joint effort unites the community and gives us all a sense of achievement.

'It was a very successful evening attended by almost 200 people and 16 schools. Five schools were unable to attend so their awards will be presented to them by the schools liaison officers after half-term.'

Friends of Norwich in Bloom welcome new member and sponsors, anyone interested should go to www.norwichinbloom.co.uk

Do you know someone from the Norwich area who has won an award? Call reporter David Freezer on 01603 772418 or email david.freezer@archant.co.uk