A BOURNEMOUTH gardens has become the latest site in the town to receive a prestigious Green Flag award.

Tuckton Tea Gardens was given the accolade for its high environmental standards and is the sixteenth place in Bournemouth to receive the award. - more than any other town in the South West.

Paul Todd, Keep Britain Tidy’s GFA scheme manager, said: “We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme.

“All the flags flying this year are a testament to the efforts of the thousands of men and women, both staff and volunteers, who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.”

Keep Britain Tidy is the environmental charity that rewards the best parks and green spaces all over the UK. The Green Flag award, through the charity, recognises parks and gardens for their safety, maintenance and mix of community facilities.

A Green Heritage Award was also presented to Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve, and it was the first time the award was given to sites with local or historic relevance.

Cllr Lawrence Williams, cabinet member for leisure and tourism, said: “This is a fantastic achievement and a well-deserved recognition for the dedicated team of staff and community volunteers that have worked on the site and improved it throughout the year.

“I would encourage everyone to get out and enjoy one of our Green Flag winning parks, especially with the perfect summer weather we are experiencing.”