The trust, based at the EcoTech Centre in Turbine Way, is a small educational charity which works with people who have learning difficulties by using gardening and science.

Its band of unpaid helpers are vital to the smooth running of the trust, and trust director Sheila Mathias said Volunteers' Week was the right time to recognise their contribution and achievements.

She said: "Some help to maintain and improve the organic demonstration garden, some help in the office and with fundraising, others help support less able volunteers in the garden or classroom so that our activities can be open to all.

"During the past year, more than 30 volunteers have helped out in one way or another and we have achieved an enormous amount together.

"The highlight has to be re-covering one of the polytunnels in the garden, but we have also grown a huge range of vegetables, started a new wild flower area, built raised beds and made a container garden.

"It is wonderful to see volunteers, with and without learning difficulties, gaining confidence and satisfaction as well as practical skills and experience."

Mrs Mathias said Breckland Council's activity grant scheme funded the event, during which Volunteers' Week certificates were presented by Mr Ian Monson, the EcoTech Centre chairman. They were also given special edition trust newsletters.