People are being encouraged to enjoy North Yorkshire parks this summer after several were recognised as some of England’s best-kept green spaces.
This month, the Green Flag Awards were announced, and five parks we managed were among the winners.
During Keep Britain Tidy’s Love Parks Week, which runs until Sunday (2 August), staff and community groups are reminding the public that parks are more than just a patch of grass.
The annual campaign celebrates parks and green spaces, those who care for them, and the benefits they bring to people, communities and the environment.
The winners of the Green Flag Awards are Falsgrave Park, Peasholm Park, and South Cliff gardens in Scarborough, Glen and Crescent gardens in Filey, and Pannett Park in Whitby.
Executive member for parks and grounds, Cllr Malcolm Taylor, said: “We are incredibly proud to have received these awards. It is credit to the tireless work of our parks team alongside the community groups who help to maintain our green spaces.
“With the summer holidays in full swing, we are encouraging people to make use of their local parks and gardens, which offer a fun, free day out for families looking for something to do.
“Parks are at the heart of our communities, often providing spaces to socialise, stay active, and reduce stress through being close to nature.
“They are also important in our fight against climate change, and their environment allows nature to thrive.”
Pannett Park and South Cliff gardens have also been awarded the Green Heritage Site Accreditation, recognising parks that successfully manage and promote their history.
Pannett Park, Whitby Museum and Pannett Art Gallery were a gift of Whitby solicitor Robert Pannett (1834 - 1920). It was built on the site of an old market garden to prevent houses being constructed there and then gave it to the people of Whitby.
Situated close to the centre of the town, this park offers a quiet haven with interesting trees and plants, rose gardens, a play area and ornamental lily pond.
South Cliff gardens has many hidden secrets as you walk through the woodland slopes. The design and creation of these gardens started in 1889 and took more than 40 years to complete.
The gardens stretch from Spa Bridge to Holbeck, where the Holbeck Hall Hotel slipped into the sea in 1993. Among the treasures of South Cliff are the Italian gardens with their formal terraces, shelters and lily pond.
The Chair of Friends of South Cliff Gardens, Adrian Perry, said: “We are so lucky to have a garden which dates to the Victorian era, and with the generous support of the National Heritage Lottery Fund we have been able to ensure the historic features are well-maintained and protected.
“In addition, we can communicate its story to visitors and update the garden so its future as a place to enjoy is assured.”