IT’S yet another clean sweep for Middlesbrough’s magnificent seven…
The town’s parks and open spaces are among the very best in the UK – and that’s official.
More parks and green spaces than ever will be flying the Green Flag Award this year, the mark of a quality park or green space.
Middlesbrough spaces landing the honour again in 2016 are Stewart Park, Albert Park, Hemlington Lake, Fairy Dell, Linthorpe Cemetery, Pallister Park and Thorntree Park.
Stainton Quarry & Kell Gate Green, cared for by the Friends of Stainton and Thornton Green Spaces, have once again been awarded a Green Flag Community Award.
They’re among a record-breaking 1,686 parks and green spaces that will today (Thursday, July 21) receive the prestigious Green Flag Award.
The awards – now celebrating their 20th year and handed out by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy – recognise and reward 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.
The Green Flag Awards are judged by an army of more than 700 green-space experts who volunteer their time to visit applicant sites and assess them against eight strict criteria, including horticultural standards, cleanliness, sustainability and community involvement.
International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme, especially as we celebrate the 20 th anniversary of the Awards.
“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.”
Middlesbrough Mayor Dave Budd said: “Middlesbrough’s parks and green open spaces are some of the jewels in its crown, and we know how important they are to the communities who use and cherish them.
“That’s why our team of dedicated and committed staff work so hard all year round to ensure they are in the best possible condition at all times.
“These latest Green Flag Awards are proof that that work has paid off, and confirmation that our parks are the equal of any elsewhere in the country.”