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

Both Eastrop Park and War Memorial Park have been recognised for being well-managed, clean and safe parks and have received the Green Flag Award.

Eastrop Park has been awarded Green Flag status for the 19th consecutive year, while War Memorial Park has received the same 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 runs until Sunday 22 July.”

Eastrop Park has everything 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 and attractive historic parkland, a skate park, sports pitches and all weather tennis courts. It also boasts a woodland walk and an aviary.

For more information about the activities on offer in Basingstoke during Love Parks Week, visit: basingstoke.gov.uk/loveparks.