Wychavon's parks retain Green Flag Award

All five parks in the district have retained their Green Flag Award status, an international sign of quality for parks and open spaces

Abbey Park and Workman Gardens in Evesham, Vines Park and Lido Park in Droitwich, and Abbey Park in Pershore join more than 2,200 winners across the UK.

All of the parks have now held Green Flag status for a decade, with Evesham’s Abbey Park having won the award 17 years running, after first being entered in 2005.

Councillor Emma Stokes, executive board member for resident and customer services on Wychavon District Council, said: “We know how much people value our green spaces, that’s why we continue to invest in them year-on-year.

“To retain our Green Flag status again, and see the judges scores improve again, is a result of the hard work and commitment of our parks team and contractors Continental Landscapes and Smart Cut.”

Cllr Emma Stokes (centre) with members of Wychavon’s parks team and staff from contractors Smart Cut who help look after Droitwich Woods

Droitwich Community Woods, managed by Wychavon District Council and Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, has also received the award for the third year in a row.

The Green Flag awards are run by environmental charity, Keep Britain Tidy.

The award, which recognises well-managed parks and green spaces, is valid for one year and must be re-applied for annually.

Paul Todd, Keep Britain Tidy’s accreditation manager, said: “Wychavon’s parks and Droitwich Community Woods are vital green spaces for the community.

“This award is testament to all the hard work of staff and others, who do so much to ensure that it maintains the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.”

Meanwhile, Abbey Park and Lido Park have been put forward for the Fields in Trust’s UK’s Favourite Parks competition.

Residents can help their favourite park claim the title by casting their vote at www.wychavon.gov.uk/parks by August 18.