Bedford Borough Parks Retain Prestigious Green Flags

Mayor Dave Hodgson has paid tribute to all staff and volunteers who help maintain Bedford Borough's parks, following news that four parks have once again won the prestigious Green Flag Award. This signals that they are among the UK's very best green spaces.

The announcement, made during Love Parks Week, sees Addison Howard Park, Bedford Park, Harrold-Odell Country Park and Priory Country Park all once again been awarded this prestigious mark of quality parks and open spaces. It has been an exceptionally successful year for the borough's wonderful country parks with Priory Country Park winning the award for its 18th year in a row, and Harrold-Odell Country Park achieving scores in the highest categories - its best year yet.

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

Two of the Council's volunteer-managed sites have also been recognised, winning the Green Flag Community Award again following their success last year: Mowsbury Hillfort and the Hill Rise Nature Reserve.

Commenting, Mayor Dave said: "Our beautiful parks and open spaces are popular with local residents and visitors alike, and we are proud to have them recognised once again by the Green Flag Award.'

"My thanks go to all the staff and volunteers who work so hard throughout the year to bring out the best in our amazing parks."

If you are interested in volunteering in one of the Council's parks and green spaces, please visit www.bedford.gov.uk/volunteering or sign up to the Community Volunteering email bulletin at www.bedford.gov.uk/stayconnected