LOWTHER Gardens has been flagged up as one of the best in the country after it received a national award.

The gardens have been given Green Flag status, the top national standard for parks and green spaces across England and Wales.

The award was presented at a special ceremony in Stratford-upon-Avon last Thursday and, on Friday, a celebration was held with two flags hoisted above the gardens.

The mayor of Fylde, Cllr John Longstaff, said: "This is a tremendous achievement for the council, which recognises and rewards excellence in our green spaces.

"We have achieved Green Flag status for Lowther through excellent partnership working specifically with the Friends of Lowther and in particular their chairperson, Mrs Yolande Brown. I take great pleasure in raising the flag in our first Green Flag park."

Cllr Alf Jealous: "I am highly delighted that rising standards in Fylde's parks have been recognised by the Green Flag award this year.

"The award is due in no small part to the dedication and commitment of the community groups, gardeners, parks staff and many volunteers working in our parks.

"They have all contributed to this great achievement -- and this award sets the standard for other parks in the borough to follow."

All parks awarded Green Flags are subject to a rigorous judging process. The judges look for spaces that are welcoming, healthy and safe, clean and well-maintained, sustainable and which involve the community.

Winning the award can bring many benefits, including new revenue opportunities, increased visitor appeal and a renewed sense of pride in the area.