May 8, 2006. Civic Trust. The best parks in England and Wales will be announced in August during a major awards ceremony at a venue yet to be named.

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by the Civic Trust, is the national standard for parks and green spaces. Winners vary from Victorian parks and town centre gardens to nature reserves, country parks and cemeteries. Sites must be judged to be welcoming, safe and well maintained with the strong involvement of the local community.

Green Flag Award judges are currently out and about assessing all applications to find out if they make the grade. All those that do will, in August, be hoisting their Green Flags, the hallmark of a quality green space where children can enjoy their summer holidays.

Caroline Williams, Green Flag Award Marketing Manager, commented: "With the summer holidays fast approaching, there is no better time to visit your local Green Flag Award park or green space.

"Our website's What's On Guide means people can find up-to-the-minute information about a wide variety of events taking place at these top quality green spaces throughout the summer holidays - which are all freely accessible to all. There is something for everyone, so visit www.greenflagaward.org.uk and see for yourself."