Four green spaces in East Devon, including some in Seaton and Sidmouth have been announced as Green Flag Winners.
The sites are owned and maintained by a team of volunteers working with East Devon District Council, who have said that the awards are a “testament” to all those that look after public green spaces in the region.
In Sidmouth, Connaught Gardens and Peak Hill Slope were awarded the Green Flag, with comments ranging from praise for the town’s In Bloom team and the appearance of the garden, despite tough conditions from the sea air.
In Seaton, Seafield Gardens is on the edge of the town centre and was praised for its wildflower areas and sustainable planting, while Seaton Wetlands, a beloved nature reserve and wetland centre, is managed by EDDC’s countryside team and volunteers. The site receives over 100,000 visitors, including educational groups throughout the year and the judges mentioned the successful nesting of sand martins at the site, thanks to an artificial wall that had been erected.
The Green Flag Awards, managed by Keep Britain Tidy, sets the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the UK, as well as internationally.
Speaking about the announcement, East Devon District Council’s Geoff Jung, said: “Our dedicated teams and volunteers have worked tirelessly to achieve these awards. I would like to share my heartfelt thanks, we couldn’t have done it without them.
“The volunteers, the Streetscene and countryside teams work in all weathers to create these special spaces for all to enjoy. We’re looking forward to growing our list of Green Flag sites, as we hope more parks and gardens will be added next year.”