MERTON has been recognised for being home to six of the 'very best parks in the world' by Green Flag Awards.

The Green Flag Award, which is an international mark of quality, recognises the best green spaces across the country and the world.

The award, judged and given annually, is a sign that a park or open space boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is well maintained and has excellent facilities.

The six parks and open spaces, which have won Green Flags Awards this year, are:

- Abbey Recreation Ground

- Colliers Wood Recreation Ground

- Dundonald Recreation Ground

- John Innes Park

- Sir Joseph Hood Memorial Playing Fields

- South Park Gardens

Wimbledon Times:

Councillor Caroline Cooper-Marbiah, the Cabinet Member for Commerce, Leisure and Culture, said: “We are absolutely delighted that six of our parks and open spaces have retained their prestigious Green Flag Awards, despite the challenges the pandemic has brought.

"Since lockdown in March our wonderful parks and open spaces have been a haven for residents to meet friends, exercise, relax and enjoy the natural environment.

“These awards are a great testament to the council’s park staff, open spaces contractor Idverde and our park volunteers, who have worked tirelessly to achieve the high standards demanded by the Green Flag awards, in a year in which our green spaces have welcomed record numbers of visitors.

“We are immensely proud of our parks which contribute so much to making Merton a great place to live and work.”