A HATRICK of Darlington’s parks are flying the Green Flag Award after reaching excellent standards of maintenance and facilities.

South Park, West Park and the West Cemetery are among a record-breaking 1,686 parks and green spaces nationally that have received the prestigious award.

The Green Flag, now celebrating its 20th year, recognises and rewards the best parks and green spaces across the country.

Cllr Nick Wallis, Darlington Council’s cabinet member for leisure and the local environment is pleased that the Darlington trio made the grade.

He said: “We are absolutely delighted to once again receive a Green Flag Award our parks and West Cemetery from Keep Britain Tidy. This award recognises and highlights that people in Darlington are benefitting from a green space of the very highest quality.”

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said that the flags were testament to all the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure parks and green spaces are maintained to the highest standards.