Two Stoke-on-Trent parks have been awarded the coveted Green Flag Award as they are officially recognised as two of the country's best parks.

The news that Burslem and Hanley Park have achieved accreditation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team that cares for the green space so that everyone can enjoy it.

The 60-acre Hanley Park, which opened in 1897, has had numerous improvements, leading to a surge in visitors.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council, which owns and maintains the park, successfully bid for £4.5 million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and The National Lottery Community Fund in 2015 to restore the park's historic features and attract more park users of all ages.

Hanley Park, which opened in 1897, has had numerous improvements in recent years (Nub News).

Councillor Amjid Wazir, cabinet member for environment and enforcement said: "I am thrilled that both Burslem and Hanley Park have once again been recognised nationally as one of the top green public spaces.

"The parks are a vibrant community spaces, with recreational facilities, sports facilities, a whole raft of grounds operators, and volunteers who keep it pristine."

Keep Britain Tidy's Green Flag Award Scheme Manager Paul Todd MBE said: "I would like to congratulate everyone involved at Burslem and Hanley Park in achieving a Green Flag Award.

"Burslem and Hanley Park is a vital green space for the community in Stoke-on-Trent, 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 everyone involved should feel extremely proud of their achievement."

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