ABBEY Gardens in Abingdon has been recognised as one of the best green spaces in the county with a prestigious Green Flag award for the tenth year running.

The area, which is maintained by Vale of White Horse District Council, received its first Green Flag in 2009 following a five-year restoration project to transform the site to the way it looked in its Victorian heyday.

The national award acts as a benchmark for public parks and spaces and indicates the gardens boast the highest possible environmental standards and are well maintained.

The Green Flag website says of the park: “The Abbey Gardens offers visitors a quiet retreat where they can relax, enjoy the flower displays, explore the archaeology or take part in informal recreational activities. The park also hosts a number of community events throughout the year."

Elaine Ware, Vale Cabinet member for housing and environment, said: “We are over the moon to receive a Green Flag Award for the tenth year in a row.

"It shows that not only can we attain the high standards expected by those giving the award, we can maintain those standards for a decade. The staff keep the gardens beautiful for everyone to enjoy, through all the seasons including the recent hot weather, which is trying for any gardener.

“We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and this award really does celebrate the dedication that goes into maintaining Abbey Gardens to such a high standard.”