HISTORIC Combe Sydenham country park has been formally recognised for its contribution to heritage and education - for the seventh time in a row.

The Grade One listed Tudor house, built in 1580 for Sir George Sydenham, has scooped its seventh Sandford Award from the Heritage Education Trust.

Owners William and Tessa Theed and the park's education officer John Burns received the prestigious accolade from Dr Lucy Worsley, chief curator at Historic Royal Palaces.

Only a handful of heritage properties in Britain and Ireland receive the award, which was launched in 1984.

Inspections are carried out every five years and Combe Sydenham has come out with flying colours each time.