Several parks in Kensington and Chelsea have been recognised as some of the best in the country.

All 10 parks which were submitted by the Royal borough were awarded with Green Flags, including Holland Park, the first park in the borough to achieve the status in 2001; Kensington Memorial Park, Little Wormwood Scrubs and Emsile Horniman Pleasance.

The Green Flag Award is given to the best green spaces in England and Wales . Awarding the Green Flag is a way of encouraging other parks and green spaces to achieve the same high environmental standards.

The awards are judged by more than 700 green space experts who assess sites against eight strict criteria, including horticultural standards, cleanliness, sustainability and community involvement.

Racing to the news, which was confirmed on July 21, Cllr Tim Ahern, had of environment, said: “I am delighted we have been able to maintain the high standards necessary to gain Green Flag status.

“I would like to thank the dedicated staff who look after our parks and make them such a joy for residents and visitors alike.”

Five parks in Harrow have also been awarded the prestigious scheme . Last year Ealing received a record number of Green Flags .