A PARK in Thurrock has been awardedb the prestigious Green Flag award.

Coalhouse Fort Park has been given the award, which is judged by experts who assess sites against criteria including horticultural standards, cleanliness and sustainability.

The award, now celebrating its 20th year, recognises and rewards the best parks and green spaces across the country.

A Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is well maintained and has excellent facilities.

Pauline Tolson, Cabinet Member for Environment, welcomed the award. She said: “I want to congratulate all those involved in obtaining this award for Coalhouse Fort Park. The hard-work has paid off and they have rightly been recognised.

“Coalhouse Fort Park is a very special part of the borough and is used and enjoyed by residents from all over Thurrock, as well as attracting visitors from outside the area.

"While the council is working hard to make the borough look more attractive, it is great to see our parks celebrated in this way.

“It is fitting that this accolade is awarded during Love Parks Week from Keep Britain Tidy, a national campaign celebrating our parks which I fully support.”

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, especially as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the awards.

“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.”

More information on the park can be found at thurrock.gov.uk/coalhousefort