A park located within the Richmond Borough has been praised and awarded for its high level of maintenance and upkeep standards.

Murray Park in Whitton has been recognised by the Green Flag Award Scheme as one of the very best parks in the country, increasing the number of borough parks with a Gren Flag Award to a credible 19.

The Green Flag award scheme began in 1996 as a way of recognising the importance of parks and green spaces and encouraging the provision and attainment of high environmental standards.

Cllr Martin Elengorn, Chair of Richmond Council’s Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sport Committee said: “Richmond upon Thames is well known for its excellent parks and open spaces and this year’s Green Flag Awards once again confirm we are maintaining and improving our standards.

“I would like to thank our council officers, contractors, friends’ groups and the wider community who support our parks. They play a vital role in maintaining the excellence of these green spaces for residents and visitors alike to enjoy.”

The award measures various aspects that are associated with the management of parks including facilities, maintenance and community engagement.

The Green Flag is awarded to successful parks and green spaces for a year - after which they must re-apply to retain the award.

However, a park or green space must at least maintain and improve upon previous standards to be guaranteed a subsequent award.

Announcements of Green Flag Award winners take places during ‘Love Parks’ Week.

The 19 Parks that where recognised by The Green Flag Awards were:

• Cambridge Gardens

• Carlisle Park

• Crane Park (Joint with London borough of Hounslow)

• Garricks Lawn

• Ham Village Green

• Hampton Common

• Hatherop Park

• Kew Green

• Kneller Gardens

• Murray Park

• North Sheen Rec

• Palewell Common & Fields

• Radnor Gardens

• Richmond Green

• Terrace Gardens and Buccleuch Gardens

• The King's Field

• Twickenham Green

• Westerly Ware

• York House Gardens