FOUR parks in North Somerset are flying the Green Flag once more, in recognition of their exceptional quality, excellent management, and fantastic visitor facilities.

North Somerset Council is celebrating these “fab four” sites:

• Abbots Pool, in Abbots Leigh

• Watchhouse Hill, in Pill

• Trendlewood Community Park, in Nailsea

• Prince Consort Gardens, in Weston-super-Mare.

The Green Flag Award celebrates well-managed parks and green spaces in the UK and across the world, and is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.

It’s managed under licence from the UK government by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy.

You can find out more about the Green Flag Award scheme here: https://www.greenflagaward.org/ Councillor Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s executive member for culture and leisure, said: “I’m thrilled that four of our parks will once again be flying the coveted Green Flag.

“Whether you want to take a stroll with friends, enjoy the views – perhaps of the stunning coast at Prince Consort Gardens, or the tranquil water at Abbots Pool – or simply sit and enjoy nature, having access to green spaces is really important.

“The fact that four of our outdoor spaces have been recognised as some of the country’s best parks is a fantastic achievement.

“It’s a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and staff, as this wouldn’t be possible without their hard work.

“I’d also like to thank our contractors Glendale and Somerset Wood Recycling, who help us keep these areas looking their best.

“Well done again to all involved. Receiving this prestigious award for another year running highlights our commitment to building a thriving and sustainable North Somerset.”

Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Award scheme manager, Paul Todd, said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved on achieving a Green Flag Award in four green spaces in North Somerset.

“These are vital green spaces for communities in North Somerset to socialise, enjoy nature, and for children to play safely. They also provide important opportunities for park users to improve their physical and mental health.

“We know that staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that it maintains the high standards of the Green Flag Award, everyone involved should feel extremely proud of their achievement.

“It is important that our free-to-use spaces are maintained to the Green Flag Award standard, making them accessible for all members of the community while ensuring the environment is protected.”