Five of Preston’s Parks have been recognised by the Green Flag Award Scheme as some of the very best in the world.

They are among a record-breaking 1,797 UK parks and green spaces that will today receive Green Flag Awards, a Green Flag Community Award and Heritage site status.

The international awards, now into their third decade, are a sign to the public that the spaces boast the highest possible environmental standards, are beautifully maintained and have excellent visitor facilities.

The parks included are Winckley Square Gardens, Avenham & Miller Parks, Ashton Park, Haslam Park and Fishwick Bottoms.

Councillor Robert Boswell, cabinet member for community and environment, said: “We are absolutely delighted to once again receive and retain multiple Green Flag Awards for Preston from Keep Britain Tidy.

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“This year in particular recognises the magnificent Winckley Square Gardens and to receive the Heritage site status is truly an honour.

“Huge thanks go to main funders Heritage Lottery Fund, plus other funders and partners involved in the project.
“We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and these awards celebrate the dedication that goes into them all to such a high standard.”

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

“Each flag is a celebration of the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.

“The success of the scheme, especially in these challenging times, demonstrates just how much parks matter to people.”

Simon Turner, co-founder and director of Winckley Square Community Interest Company, said: “To receive national recognition is a wonderful achievement and a credit to everyone involved in the project.

“Since the project completed, we are seeing far more people enjoy the Gardens. This area has a great future.”