From the Harling Hero to the Horsford Prolific, Norfolk has an extensive variety of native fruits.

But there is said to be little research into the historic orchards where many of them are grown.

Now, almost half-a-million pounds has been awarded to a project aiming to shed more light on the subject.

Over the next three years, the University of East Anglia will survey and record orchards across the region.

Its School of History department received £477,700 in lottery funding towards the project, known as Orchards East.

The initiative will see further research into the history of fruit growing in the east of England, and the restoration of old orchards.

Professor Tom Williamson, head of the landscape group in the school of history department, said: 'I am delighted that we have been awarded this National Lottery grant.

'Orchards are an important heritage resource, both in terms of biodiversity and as key features in our historic landscape.'

For further information and to find out how to get involved, contact Professor Tom Williamson: t.williamson@uea.ac.uk.