Two parks in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge have achieved coveted Green Flag Awards, ranking them among the best in the country, it has been announced today (Monday, July 28th).
The awards, announced this morning by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, recognise and reward the best parks and green spaces across the country.
Marine Cove on Burnham’s Esplanade is receiving its Green Flag Award for a third year while Apex Park in Highbridge will receive its for an eighth year.
Councillor Peter Downing, Chairman of Sedgemoor District Council, said Marine Cove’s award is especially well deserved after the gardens suffered serious vandalism last autumn and required substantial repairs.
“It is with thanks to Sedgemoor’s Parks, Clean Surroundings and Dog Warden staff, as well as the incredible support from the Friends of Marine Cove Gardens and Friends of Apex Park Improvements Group, that both parks are in tip-top condition for their wide range of visitors,” he said.
“Sedgemoor District Council is very proud to have once again been recognised in two separate locations for Green Flag awards. Marine Cove was inspected for the award only a few months after a serious vandalism incident so it just goes to show the hard work Sedgemoor staff and The Friends of Marine Cove put into the Gardens. Very well done to all involved.”
Nationally across the UK, 1,476 parks and green spaces are to receive the prestigious Green Flag Award in 2014, says Keep Britain Tidy.
Cllr Downing will raise the Green flag at Marine Cove alongside volunteers and Sedgemoor staff this Wednesday (30th July) at 6.30pm, coinciding with a Light up the Lake event for Weston Hospice, as previewed here.
And Apex Park’s flag will be raised on Wednesday 6th August at 10.30am, coinciding with annual National Playday event at the park.
Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “We are delighted to announce yet another record-breaking year for Green Flag Award parks and green spaces.”
“A Green Flag Award provides national recognition for all the parks managers, staff and volunteers who, through their dedication and hard work, have helped to create these fantastic places for everyone to enjoy. Quality green spaces are a vital resource for communities and that is why it is so significant that we have given out more awards than ever before.”
