A park in Bexley has received a Green Flag Award, recognising it as one of best parks in the UK.

Lesnes Abbey Woods in south east London has been recognised by the Green Flag Award Scheme, which is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.

The Green Flag is a sign to the public that Lesnes Abbey Woods boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is beautifully maintained, and has excellent visitor facilities.

Councillor Peter Craske, Bexley’s Cabinet Member for Places, said: "Throughout the pandemic our parks and green spaces have been a lifeline for people to relax, exercise and meet friends and family safely.

"The news that Lesnes Abbey Woods has achieved the Green Flag Award for the fourth-year running is testament to the hard work and dedication of our Parks and Open Spaces team and our resident volunteers including the newly formed ‘Friends of Lesnes Abbey and Woods’."

He added: "Our thanks to them for making Lesnes Abbey Woods one of the best parks to visit.”

Commenting on the news, Green Flag Award Scheme Manager Paul Todd said: "I would like to congratulate everyone involved in making Lesnes Abbey Woods worthy of a Green Flag Award.

“To meet the requirements demanded by the scheme is testament to the hard work of the staff and volunteers who do so much to ensure that Lesnes Abbey Woods has high standards of horticulture, safety and environmental management and is a place that supports people to live healthy lives.”

People pictured in the main image, from left to right: Bill Ganney, Paul Burbridge (Grounds Maintenance Officer), Beth Payne, Danny Rankin, Councillor Peter Craske, Maria Reilly, Martin Colley, Keith Langley (Treasurer, Friends of Lesnes Abbey and Woods), Anthony Thomas (Lesnes Abbey Estate Research Group), James Curtin, Ian Holt (Lesnes Abbey Woods, Estate Manager), Rhonda Baker (front row), Stephanie Johnson (North West Kent Countryside Partnership (back row), Sam Smith, Kim Durrani (Deputy Director Neighbourhoods).