Traders along one of Norwich's most historic shopping streets have turned it into a sea of yellow and green - in a bid to promote footfall and to celebrate the Canaries' return to the Premier League.

Timberhill is known for its independent shops and pubs and comes alive on Norwich City match days.

And to celebrate the club's first game of the new season away at Wigan Athletic on Saturday, traders have got out the balloons to decorate the street and parts of adjacent Orford Street and Orford Place.

The idea came from Phil Cutter, landlord at the Murderers' pub, who said: 'Thirty-four traders are taking part in this, which is a pretty good turnout.

'It's part of an ongoing initiative to try and promote footfall along Timberhill, and to celebrate Norwich City's return to the Premier League, Hopefully, it will draw some attention to the beautiful and historic Timberhill.

'Norwich's promotion to the Premier League will put the city on the map and give thousands of people more reason to come here and see what we can offer. The last time the club was in the top division we saw an upturn in trade, and we're hoping for the same again.'

Roberta Pumer, owner of the Ethika fashion shop in the street, said the event was important as it had brought the whole community together.

She said: 'What's unique about Timberhill is the very diverse range of independent shops it offers. We help to give Norwich its special character.'

Other businesses along the street said they were delighted to take part in the initiative.

Anne Cunningham, sales assistant at Nola clothes shop, said: 'We are happy to take part in this, as it's part of building up community spirit.'

Jenny Forder, a member of staff at the Castle Gates pub, added that there was always a 'brilliant atmosphere' in the street on match days.

And Sue Mann, manager at sporting shop Orvis, said: 'Hopefully it will bring people up here. It's nice that nearly all the street has got involved in it.'