A Lincoln tradition dating back 2,000 years is to be revived thanks to the hard work of volunteers.

A vineyard which stands on the same ground as vines used by the Romans, could be producing wine again for the first time in 10 years.

The vines were given by the city's German twin town of Neustadt an der Weinstrasse and are planted in the grounds of the Old Bishop's Palace.

It was feared they would be lost because of cutbacks at the city council.

It's a very tranquil place and people can come and enjoy the peace and quiet

Kate Fenn Lincoln City Council

After securing a grant and sponsorship, it is hoped the vineyard will produce a crop of grapes next year.

This year the 250 vines are being nursed back to health by dedicated volunteers.

Because they have not produced a crop since 1992 the vines have contracted a type of mildew.

Volunteers have been pruning them in an attempt to eradicate the disease.

Kate Fenn, a civil officer for Lincoln City Council, said: "These vines were planted in 1972 but we know this land was also used to grow grapes by the Romans.

"Thanks to support from the Friends of Neustadt and �2,000 from the Millennium Guild, we are able to revive the vineyard.

"It's a very tranquil place and people can come and enjoy the peace and quiet."