Botesdale recreation grounds scoops internationally recognised Green Flag Award.

A parish council is celebrating after its green space was given an international award.

Botesdale Parish Council has been congratulated by Keep Britain Tidy after the village’s recreation ground was given a Green Flag Award.

The accolade is managed by the independent environmental charity under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

The Green Flag has been made the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.

Paul Todd, Keep Britain Tidy’s green flag award scheme manager, said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved at Botesdale Recreation Ground on achieving a Green Flag Award.

“Botesdale Recreation Ground is a vital green space for communities on the Suffolk/Norfolk border to socialise, enjoy nature, for children to play safely and it provides important opportunities for park users to improve their physical and mental health.

“We know that staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that it maintains the high standards of the Green Flag Award, everyone involved should feel extremely proud of their achievement.”

Cllr Greg Russell, speaking on behalf of Botesdale Parish Council, said the accolade reflected the dedication and effort invested in creating a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages in the village.

“The consistent and growing footfall at Botesdale Recreation Ground highlights its appeal as a vibrant and inviting destination,” he added.

“This achievement would not have been possible without the leadership and financial support of Botesdale Parish Council, along with the ongoing care of volunteers and Urban Forestry, our maintenance contractor.

“As a continually evolving facility, Botesdale Recreation Ground has plans for further enhancements and additions in the coming years, so we can ensure that it remains a cherished and vital part of our community.”

Keep Britain Tidy won the contract to deliver the Green Flag Award in 2009, with seven parks given the award in the first year.

This year, 2,227 parks and green spaces achieved the Green Flag Award after submissions from local authorities and other land managers across the country.

A range of sites achieved the grade, including world-famous city parks to small such as Queen’s Park in London to local green spaces.