A NUMBER of Calderdale parks have again been recognised by the Green Flag Award scheme, including those in Ogden, Brighouse and Bailiff Bridge.

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces.

Wellholme Park in Brighouse and Ogden Water Country Park will once again fly the Green Flag and Bailiff Bridge Memorial Garden has retained the special Green Flag Community Award.

A new addition is the 24 acres of green space around Park Wood Crematorium in Elland, which has also received the accolade for the first time. The whole space is a memorial garden and has been described as a place of "reverence and tranquillity".

Calderdale Council’s cabinet member responsible Cllr Jenny Lynn, said: “Our parks and green spaces have been so important to so many this year, particularly during lockdown when a visit to the local park allowed people to enjoy the benefits of open space, fresh air and exercise.

“As people are now allowed to meet outdoors up to the rule of six, parks remain a popular destination to reunite with loved ones at a safe distance."

Keep Britain Tidy chief executive Allison Ogden-Newton OBE said: “This year, more than ever, our parks and green spaces have been a lifeline and we know that millions of people have used them to relax, meet friends, exercise or simply escape for a short time.

“It is testament to the incredible dedication and hard work of parks staff and volunteers that, despite the challenges that went along with record numbers of visitors, Calderdale Council has achieved the highest international standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.”