It is a Christmas tree with a difference - dozens of festive baubles have been appearing overnight in the trees surrounding Normandie Tower in Norwich.

The origins of the knitted pompoms have been a mystery to locals, but we can reveal today that they are the brainchild of Helen Simpson, a local figure renowned for her efforts in brightening Norwich through the medium of wool.

Ms Simpson, a founding organiser of the Magdalen Street Festival, said 'When I do these things it feels great, people don't know how it happens overnight and interactions happen because of it. It's exciting to be able to give it as a gift to the people of Norwich at Christmas.'

The Christmas tree is the latest initiative by the self proclaimed 'artivist', who has been creating work over the past four years for events across Norwich.

Her previous efforts have included knitting a 30 metre scarf which hung across the balcony of City Hall in celebration of Norwich Pride.

Ms Simpson, 47, said: 'It's a nice thing to do, I've had a lot of chances in life so it's great to give something back, I call it my 'graffiti for middle aged people'.'