SIX of the city's parks and green spaces have been recognised as 'the very best in the world'.

Blackbird Leys Park, Bury Knowle Park, Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park, Florence Park, Hinksey Park and St Sepulchre's Cemetery in Oxford are among 1,797 parks across the UK to receive a Green Flag Award - the mark of a quality park or green space.

Councillor Linda Smith, Executive Board Member for Leisure, Parks and Sports said: "We are absolutely delighted to receive the Green Flag Award for the 11th time.

"We know how much quality green spaces matters to residents and visitors, and these awards celebrate the dedication to maintaining Oxford Parks to such a high standard."

This international 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.

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: "We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme.

"Each flag is a celebration of the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.

"The success of the scheme, especially in these challenging times, demonstrates just how much parks matter to people.”