Bedford Borough Parks are some of the best in the Country

Four parks in Bedford Borough have been judged to be among the best in the country after receiving a prestigious Green Flag Award - the mark of a quality park or green space.

Priory Country Park, Harrold Odell Country Park, Addison Howard Park, and Bedford Park will all be flying their new Green Flags on site this summer. The Green Flag Awards are judged by an army of more than 700 green space experts, who visit applicant sites and assess them against eight strict criteria, including horticultural standards, cleanliness, sustainability and community involvement. 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.

Priory Country Park has the longest history of being awarded the Green Flag, having won it for fifteen years running, while Harrold-Odell Country Park has been awarded a green flag for nine years! Winning these Green Flag Awards is testament to the continued high standards and hard work that has gone into maintaining and improving the grounds at these local parks.

In addition, both Harrold-Odell Country Park and Priory Country Park were awarded Certificates of Excellence by travel website Trip Advisor. The TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence is awarded to attractions that consistently achieve outstanding traveller reviews on TripAdvisor.

Mayor of Bedford Borough Dave Hodgson said 'We are very lucky in Bedford Borough to have so many parks and green spaces, but it's not luck that keeps them tidy and well maintained. That is thanks to the efforts of staff and volunteers, and these awards are a testament to their hard work.'

"I would encourage everyone to visit their local parks and to enjoy the array of events and activities they are offering this summer, and throughout the year."

To find out more about the parks and open spaces near you please click here.