Three of Monmouthshire County Council’s parks including Abergavenny’s Castle Meadows have retained their coveted Green Flag Award granted last year by leading environmental charity, Keep Wales Tidy.

Castle Meadows, Tintern’s Old Station and Caldicot Castle and Country Park have been recognised as being among the best parks and green spaces in the country and maintaining high standards throughout the year.

The awards recognise the considerable efforts made by volunteers and park managers to reach these standards.

In addition, Paul Cheeseman of the Old Station has won the Green Flag Employee of the Year award for Wales.

Five locations in Monmouthshire have also gained the Green Flag Community Award – this recognises high quality green spaces managed by voluntary and community groups.

Among them is Abergavenny’s Friends of Bailey Park, whose volunteers meet regularly to weed and maintain a sensory garden.

Also achieving the Green Flag Community Award are Crucorney Allotments, Goetre Community Garden, Abergavenny’s Laurie Jones Community Orchard and Crick Woodland.

County Councillor Bob Greenland, cabinet member with responsibility for Tourism and Leisure said, “It’s wonderful news that three of the council’s parks have been recognised as worthy of the Green Flag Award.

“Congratulations also go to the five sites that have won the Green Flag Community Award. I am particularly pleased that both awards recognise the effort and role of the volunteers at each site.”