WYCHAVON can once again boast some of the finest parks in the country after being awarded five Green Flag Awards for the third year running.

The district’s five parks - Abbey Park in Pershore, Abbey Park and Waterside Gardens in Evesham and Lido Park and Vines Park in Droitwich - are among a record breaking 1,582 parks and green spaces across the country to be chosen to receive the prestigious award.

Wychavon has also received more Green Flags than any other part of Worcestershire.

The award, handed out by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, recognises and rewards the best parks and green spaces across the country. A Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.

Lynn Stevens, parks officer at Wychavon District Council, said: “We are delighted to have achieved Green Flag status for all five of our parks for the third year running.

"They are a testament to the hard work of our team but are also a signal to our residents of the quality and cleanliness of these wonderful green and open spaces that everyone is welcome to enjoy.”

Councillor Emma Stokes, portfolio holder for environment at Wychavon District Council, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to receive these Green Flag Awards and proud to be flying them in more parks than anywhere else in Worcestershire.

"Our parks and open spaces are important to us as we know they are valued by our residents.

"That’s why the parks team works so hard to not only ensure they are beautifully maintained, but to continue to add to the facilities available for people to enjoy, and my congratulations go to them for this much deserved success.”

Paul Todd, Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Award scheme manager, added: “We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme.

"All the flags flying this year are a testament to the efforts of the thousands of men and women, both staff and volunteers, who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.”