A special tree has been planted to mark a landmark anniversary for Norwich's horticultural heroes and the launch of the city's entry into an international campaign.

The Friends of Norwich in Bloom are this year celebrating their 30th year and during 2016 will be taking part in the Communities in Bloom International Challenge, which is run from Canada.

Yesterday the Sheriff of Norwich, Beryl Blower, helped to officially mark the beginning of the campaign by planting a paper birch tree – an emblem of Saskatchewan, Canada – next to All Saints Green Church in Westlegate.

Mrs Blower said: 'I think it's amazingly prestigious for the city. Friends of Norwich in Bloom are celebrating 30 years and this is a lovely addition to their celebrations. The Friends of Norwich in Bloom do a tremendous amount of work to help make our city as beautiful as it is, winter or summer... I cannot praise them highly enough.'

Terry Bane, Friends of Norwich in Bloom trustee and ambassador, said taking part in the global horticultural event was a wonderful way to mark three decades of volunteers working hard to keep Norwich looking bright and cheerful with plants and flowers.

'It's putting Norwich on the international stage. It is really providing a platform for the city to be proud,' he said.

Raymond Carriere, founding president of Communities in Bloom, also sent a special message.

'We are looking forward to learning more about Norwich and exchanging ideas through the horticultural achievements of the Friends of Norwich in Bloom,' he said.

Judges will visit Norwich and other entrants in the international challenge in July, and the results will be announced in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, in October. Norwich previously took part in the international competition in 2009 and was awarded a Five Bloom Award and a Best Youth Involvement Award.

The 2016 international horticultural quest comes after Norwich enjoyed an award-winning 2015, including being among the communities honoured at the RHS Britain in Bloom awards. This year Norwich is also a national RHS Britain in Bloom finalist with Mancroft in Bloom in the urban community category.

A special bronze plaque for the tree planted yesterday was donated by CIM.

Any businesses interested in sponsoring Norwich's entry for the Communities in Bloom International Challenge or becoming a Friends of Norwich in Bloom business member or sponsor can find out more at www.norwichinbloom.co.uk

The Friends of Norwich in Bloom will also be at The Forum on Saturday from 9am until 5pm for the launch of their schools and summer competition.

Are you making your community bloom? Email newsdesk@archant.co.uk