TWO parks in Basingstoke have been recognised as among the best in the country.

Both Eastrop Park and War Memorial Park have been praised for being well-managed, clean and safe to receive Green Flag Award status.

Eastrop Park has been awarded the status for the 19th consecutive year, while War Memorial Park has received the award for the 11th year in a row.

The award was given to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy.

Cabinet member for planning and infrastructure at the borough council Councillor Mark Ruffell said: “It is fantastic that two of our popular parks continue to be recognised as among the best in the country.

“This wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and enthusiasm shown by our team at the council.

“Our open spaces are important for wellbeing and leisure activities and last year 200 local volunteers dedicated 11,500 hours to supporting our borough’s green spaces through conservation activities.

“People of all ages have been enjoying a free week of exciting activities in different locations during Love Parks Week which ran until Sunday, 22 July.”

Eastrop Park has attractions ranging from a boating lake and children’s paddling pool to play areas and a tree trail.

War Memorial Park recently hosted B LOVE music festival, and offers visitors a children’s play area, historic parkland, a skate park, sports pitches and all weather tennis courts. It also has a woodland walk and an aviary.

For more information about the activities on offer in Basingstoke parks, go to basingstoke.gov.uk/loveparks.