Independent traders of Norwich Lanes say they have noticed a real buzz since the area was shortlisted for a national award.

The Lanes is up against districts of Glasgow and Bristol in the final of the Great British High Street Awards, in the contest's city category.

Judges revealed the shortlist in October, and since then the boutiques, cafes and bars of the Lanes have seen a surge in visitors.

Duane Dibartolomeo, who co-owns Grosvenor Fish Bar in Lower Goat Lane with Christian Motta, said: 'This weekend was crazy, the weekend before was crazy - I would say more people are visiting.

'This has got people talking.'

Asked what it would mean to him if the Lanes won the final, he said: 'I think there would be a sense of pride in the area, and even more of a sense of community.'

He added businesses worked together, with the Birdcage pub allowing people to take in food from the fish bar.

But even if the Lanes is pipped to the post, it has benefited from inclusion on the shortlist.

'It's already brought in so many people who weren't familiar with the Lanes,' said Mr Dibartolomeo. 'They say it's like Brighton.'

The date that winners will be announced is yet to be confirmed.

The awards are being run by the Future High Streets Forum – a group which advises the government on the challenges facing high streets.

Winners will get a share of £50,000 prize money and to receive dedicated support and mentoring from industry experts.

To show your support for Norwich Lanes take to Twitter using the hashtag #GBHighSt, and show a photo of your favourite place to go to at the Lanes.

• Do you think Norwich Lanes deserves to win? Write to Letters Editor, with full name and address details, at Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich, NR1 1RE, or email eveningnewsletters@archant.co.uk