A 300-strong army of 'friends' of a Broads environmental study centre has been thanked for providing it with vital equipment.

Over the past year the Friends of How Hill have raised thousands of pounds to buy kit ranging from lifejackets and buoyancy aids to wet weather clothing for the staff and new signage.

An annual meeting heard the £8,231 raised came from a mix of subscriptions, donations and events – which included a music recital, and outdoor productions of War of the Worlds and Much Ado About Nothing.

The Friends also organised a guided Norwich tour, by city guide Paul Dickson, of buildings designed by the Boardman family who lived at How Hill before it became an education centre in the 1960s.

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How Hill director Simon Partridge thanked the Friends for their efforts, particularly for picking up the £5,000-plus tab for replacing nearly 80 lifejackets for children, adults and staff using How Hill’s boats.

Upcoming Friends events include Comedy of Errors by the Pantaloons on August 13. Tickets from Jeanne Flett on 01692 678560.

They are also holding a craft fair on Wednesday, October 25. 

Visit www.howhilltrust.org.uk for more information