Residents of Norwich and those from further afield have rushed to support the city in its bid to be named as having the country's best high street.

Eastern Daily Press: Business owners from the Royal Arcade and Castle district are urging people to vote for the shopping area in Britain's best high street award.PHOTO: Nick ButcherBusiness owners from the Royal Arcade and Castle district are urging people to vote for the shopping area in Britain's best high street award.PHOTO: Nick Butcher (Image: ©archant2016)

Earlier this week, the city's Castle/Arcade district was shortlisted in the third annual Great British High Street competition.

And although the area has fierce competition from Bristol and Derby, those who love its quirky shops and welcoming atmosphere have shown their support online.

On Twitter, Rachael Fretter said: 'Norwich is a fantastic city, great shopping, fab atmosphere... we can do it! Let's win!'

Jo Clarke shared a photo of the mural of a dragon, on Red Lion Street. She said: 'Norwich has more than just great shops – there's a whole experience to go with shopping in Norwich.'

Eastern Daily Press: The Snap dragon mural on Red Lion StreetThe Snap dragon mural on Red Lion Street (Image: Jo Clarke)

Huw Sayer encouraged people to get behind the city and tweet their support. He added: 'Norwich definitely deserves to win.'

If the Castle/Arcade district – which was nominated by Norwich Business Improvement District (BID) – wins, they will get a share of the prize pot worth £100,000.

And they'll win expert training from Google's digital taskforce for shops, bars and restaurants and a trip to Twitter UK's London office to further boost their social media skills.

Alongside the public's votes, shortlisted cities and towns will also be inspected by the judging panel – made up of industry leaders from across retail, property and business, including British Land, the Post Office and Holland and Barratt.

In 2014 The Norwich Lanes won, which not only boosted pride in the city but also had tangible economic impact with retailers reporting increased footfall. Norwich BID is hoping to repeat this success, and is eagar for the Castle/Arcade area to be recognised for its innovative and unique approach to the challenges of the modern high street.

• Why do you think Norwich should win? Write (giving your full contact details) to: The Letters Editor, Norwich Evening News, Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich NR1 1RE or email eveningnewsletters@archant.co.uk

• You can also tweet @Evening News using the hashtag #GBHighSt to let us know your views.