FIVE of Taunton Deane’s parks and open spaces have received international recognition under the Green Flag Award scheme.

They are among 1,883 UK sites that will today (Monday) receive prestigious Green Flag Awards and Green Flag Community Awards – the mark of a quality park or green space.

The accolade demonstrates that they boast the highest possible environmental standards, are beautifully maintained and have excellent visitor facilities.

Taunton’s Vivary and Victoria Parks and French Weir Recreation Ground have been awarded Green Flags along with Wellington Park, which also receives a Green Flag Heritage Award, while Swains Lane Nature Reserve in Wellington gains a Community Green Flag.

Cllr Vivienne Stock-Williams, executive councillor for sports, parks and leisure, said: "We know how much green spaces matter to our residents and visitors in Taunton Deane so are absolutely delighted to receive these awards for 2018/19.

"They are testament to the dedication of our staff and the wonderful volunteers who put so much effort into maintaining our parks and open spaces to such a high standard.

"It really is an achievement to retain them year on year. They should feel very proud."

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, with more green flags awarded this year than last year.

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

"We are proud to have so many wonderful green spaces in the UK for people to enjoy, and hope that next year, we award even more flags."