THE prestigious Keep Britain Tidy Green Flag can again be flown over Minehead’s Blenheim Gardens this year.

It is one of 10 awarded to parks and green spaces across Somerset in 2023 and reflects the work of Somerset Council’s grounds maintenance team and volunteers from the town.

The Green Flag award scheme recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for their management across the UK and around the world.

It is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities and is now in its fourth decade.

The Green Flag, which the six-acre Blenheim Gardens was first awarded in 2020, is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is beautifully maintained, and has excellent visitor facilities.

Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “I would like to congratulate everybody involved at Somerset Council for achieving so many Green Flag awards.

“These parks provide vital green space for the people of Somerset, bringing people together and providing opportunities to lead healthy lifestyles.

“The staff and volunteers do so much to ensure that it maintains the high standards of the Green Flag award, and everybody involved should feel extremely proud of their achievements.”

Council regulatory and operational management service director Sarah Dowden said: “Each of these 10 flags honours each and every one of our dedicated staff, volunteers, and friends’ groups who all work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag.

“We are proud to have so many wonderful, award-winning green spaces for the people of Somerset to enjoy.”

Council climate and sustainability director Kirsty Larkins said: “It goes without saying that access to the countryside and parks is important for our health and wellbeing.

"We are also proud that our open spaces are managed to support an array of wildlife and are able to play a vital role in supporting nature’s recovery.”