THREE of Worcester’s favourite parks have been named in an award scheme recognising the very best green spaces in the UK.

Fort Royal, Gheluvelt and Cripplegate parks have all been awarded prestigious green flags by the charity Keep Britain Tidy.

The awards signal to the public that these parks boast the highest possible environmental standards, are well maintained and have excellent visitor facilities.

This is the second year running that the three parks have been named in the award.

All three parks are maintained by Worcester City Council.

Cllr Joy Squires, chairman of the council’s environment committee, said: “These awards are testament to the hard work and dedication of the city council’s team and the parks’ friends groups, who strive to maintain the highest standards throughout the year.

“Visitor numbers to our parks have soared during this spell of hot weather. I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to their upkeep, ensuring they are safe, welcoming places which people of all ages can enjoy.”

Fort Royal Park is south-east of the city centre, with its main entrance on Wylds Lane.

It is of great historical significance as the site of the 1651 Battle of Worcester, the final battle of the English Civil War.

It was also visited by the second and third presidents of the United States of America, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, who were keen to see the site they regarded as the place where democracy was effectively born.

The park boasts stunning views of the city and a playground containing innovative play equipment with a Civil War theme, designed for a range of age groups.

Situated on Barbourne Road in the north of the city, Gheluvelt Park attracts nearly a million visitors a year.

It is home to the highly popular Splashpad water fountain, which is loved by families across the city.

The Splashpad was part of a £1.4m Heritage Lottery Fund-backed makeover in 2010, which also brought a specially-commissioned war memorial feature, a new play area and a refurbished bandstand.

Gheluvelt Park is on Historic England’s official Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.

Twelve houses built within the park for disabled servicemen have grade II listed status, along with its bandstand, entrance arch, gates and railings.

Cripplegate Park is located to the west of the city on New Road, opposite the county cricket ground. The park boasts stunning flower beds, separate play areas for toddlers through to teens, tennis courts and bowling greens.

There is also a nine-foot sculpture of a poppy, created in honour of the men of the Worcestershire Yeomanry who were killed in First World War battles in the Egyptian desert.

Award manager Paul Todd said: “Each flag honours staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the award.”