TWO Keighley-district parks are flying the flag.

Cliffe Castle and Central Park, Haworth, are among six parks across the Bradford district to gain this year’s coveted Green Flag Award.

The awards scheme – run by the environmental charity, Keep Britain Tidy – recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces.

Cliffe Castle Park has also retained its prestigious Green Heritage Site accreditation, for the management of its historic features. The accreditation is supported by Historic England.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s executive member for healthy people and places, says the awards are a huge achievement – particularly in the current situation.

“This is great news in the middle of the many challenges we have faced this year,” she added.

“In the grip of a global pandemic, the importance of parks and green spaces has rocketed as they became one of the few places people could constantly visit during the various stages of lockdown.

“We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors – and our hard-working staff try their best to maintain the highest standards possible.

“Awards like this also provide an opportunity for us to recognise how much we value the contribution made by volunteers in the various friends groups who help to keep our parks looking their best.

“We are fortunate to have such beautiful parks in our district and they are great places to improve people’s mental and physical wellbeing.”

Keep Britain Tidy chief executive, Allison Ogden-Newton, said: “This year more than ever our parks and green spaces have been a lifeline.

“It is testament to the dedication and hard work of staff and volunteers that six Bradford-district parks have achieved the highest international standards.”