A COUNTRY park in Worcester and a nature reserve in Malvern have been recognised as among the best in the country

The Worcester Woods Country Park and the St Wulstan's Local Nature Reserve in Malvern Wells have been given Green Flag status,

The greenspaces are among a record-breaking 1,970 UK parks and green spaces and 131 in thirteen other countries around the world, that will receive a prestigious Green Flag Award – the mark of a quality park or green space.

This international award, now into its third decade, is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent visitor facilities.

Cllr Lucy Hodgson, cabinet member for communities, said: “It’s brilliant news that our greenspaces have been recognised nationally, and they really are something our county can be proud of.

"This accolade is a real recognition of the hard work of our staff and volunteers put in to ensure that we make the most of the beautiful countryside Worcestershire has to offer to those who live in the county and those who visit.”

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “It’s fantastic that we have more Green Flag Awards in the UK than ever before, joined this year by 131 international winners.

“Each flag honours the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award. We congratulate each and every winner on their fantastic achievement.”

As well as the Worcester and Malvern sites, the Waseley Hills Country Park in Rubery also got Green Flag status.