THREE parks in Worcestershire have been once again honoured by the Green Flag Award scheme.

Worcester Woods Country Park, Waseley Hills Country Park, Rubery and St. Wulstan's Nature Reserve, Malvern – all belonging to Worcestershire County Council - have been selected as some of the very best in the country.

They are among a record-breaking 1,883 parks and green spaces in the country that will today receive a prestigious Green Flag Award which is the mark of a quality park or green space.

Councillor Lucy Hodgson, cabinet member responsible for communities, said: "We have some fantastic open spaces here in Worcestershire that are well used by people who live in the county and also by visitors.

"We are proud and delighted that Worcester Woods, Walseley Hills and St Wulstan's have all been given Green Flag status once again."

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd added: "We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme, with more Green Flags awarded this year than last year.

"Each flag honours the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award. We are proud to have so many wonderful green spaces in the UK for people to enjoy, and hope that next year, we award even more flags."

The 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.