TWO Basingstoke parks are included on a list of the best parks in England and Wales.

War Memorial Park and Eastrop Park have both been awarded a Green Flag award from environmental charity, Keep Britain Tidy.

It is the 15th year running that Eastrop Park has been given the accolade while War Memorial Park has received the award for the seventh year in a row – meaning Basingstoke has two of the top parks in the country for visitors to enjoy.

The award, which means Green Flags will be flown at the two parks, recognises the best parks and green spaces in the country that have the highest possible standards, are beautifully maintained and have excellent facilities.

Eastrop Park includes a wildlife area, children’s paddling pool, boating lake, play areas, trim trail and tree trail.

War Memorial Park, where Basingstoke Live was held in July, offers visitors the chance to enjoy attractive historic parkland, play area, BMX/skate park, sports pitches, all weather tennis courts, woodland walk and an aviary.

The park also has a community orchard, with apple, pear and plum trees, planted by volunteers from Incredible Edible as part of a campaign to educate people on the benefits of growing their own food.

Councillor Hayley Eachus, cabinet member for community services and the environment at Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, said: “I am delighted that once again Basingstoke has been recognised for having two of the country’s top parks.

“Special thanks go to our team who maintain these parks to such high standards, so that they can be enjoyed by everyone. It is great to see just how many people visit and enjoy them.”

Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd added: “A Green Flag Award provides national recognition for all the parks’ managers, staff and volunteers who, through their dedication and hard work, have helped to create these fantastic places.”