TWO local parks have been recognised as some of the best in the world.

Staff and volunteers who work to maintain Hexham Parks, made up of the Abbey Grounds, Hexham House and the Sele, and Bolam Lake Country Park, near Belsay, are celebrating after their efforts ensured the parks retained the international Green Flag Award.

They are among a record-breaking 1,970 UK parks and green spaces that will receive the prestigious honour – the mark of a quality park or green space.

Ridley Park in Blyth, Dr Pit Park in Bedlington, Astley Park in Seaton Delaval, Alexandra Park in Cramlington, Carlisle Park in Morpeth, Castle Vale and Coronation Park in Berwick and Plessey Woods Country Park in Bedlington also made the list.

The 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.

Councillor Glen Sanderson, cabinet member for environment and local services at Northumberland County Council said: “Yet again all the parks we entered have achieved Green Flag awards. They highlight and recognise that residents and visitors are benefiting from green spaces of the very highest quality.

“These awards also celebrate the dedication of our staff and volunteers to maintaining and improving our parks and it’s thanks to them we’ve retained these honours.

“Over the past year we’ve spent around £325,000 on a range of work at Druridge Bay, Plessey Woods and Bolam Lake Country Parks to significantly enhance their appeal as great places to visit.”