Local partnerships are making a big difference in boosting communities across Norfolk said the chief of a growing movement of people's banks.A new Poppyland Community Bank has been launched at Cromer, with others either under way or coming soon through similar partnerships at Sheringham, Stalham, North Walaham, Holt, Fakenham and Wells.

Local partnerships are making a big difference in boosting communities across Norfolk said the chief of a growing movement of people's banks.

A new Poppyland Community Bank has been launched at Cromer, with others either under way or coming soon through similar partnerships at Sheringham, Stalham, North Walaham, Holt, Fakenham and Wells.

President of the Norfolk Credit Union Alan Squirrell said such banks were not just about finance but also building 'strong and viable communities' by keeping money circulating within them.

And he said areas with community partnerships, running the banks as one of their many functions, were making a 'tremendous difference.'

The new Poppyland bank was launched at Merchant's Place during an evening which also featured the annual meeting of the local partnership.

Others speakers talked outlined other approaches to strengthening community wellbeing in difficult economic times - through artistic collaborations.

Nora Gaston spoke about the Belfry Arts Centre where she is co-ordinator of an exhibition and performance space in the old village school.

She said: 'The arts really do make a difference in peoples' lives because you're addressing that part of them - the spirit and the soul - that is so important for well-being'.

The meeting also heard of planned joint arts festival with Cromer and Sheringham in 2010 .

Poppyland is committed to such activities, looking at financial, artistic and community issues which have arisen through a series of public meetings looking at the issues, realities, challenges and joys of coastal living.

More information is available by calling 01263 519454 or dropping into Merchants' Place on Church Street, Cromer.