EVESHAM'S Abbey Park was one of fewer than 400 parks in England and Wales awarded the coveted Green Flag status this week.

The Green Flag scheme, which is managed by the Civic Trust, is the national standard for parks and green spaces.

Winning sites - there were 322 of them announced this week - must be judged to be welcoming, safe and well maintained with the strong involvement of the local community.

Abbey Park was entered by Wychavon District Council for the award after a number of investments and projects to rejuvenate the site.

Over the past three years a new ornamental herbaceous garden was created, the model boat pool refurbished, enhanced entrances and signs, new shrub planting and a revamped quayside. Future plans include the creation of a new children's water play area.

Wychavon's parks officer Lynn Stevens said: "I am absolutely thrilled that Abbey Park has been considered a good enough standard to receive this prestigious award.

"The hard work of officers, contractors, members and community groups alike to make a visit to Abbey Park a pleasure for everyone has been rewarded. It really was a team effort."