TWO more parks have achieved the much sought after Green Flag status- bringing the total in Hillingdon up to an all time high of 16.

The achievement means that Hillingdon has the joint second highest number of Green Flag parks in London, behind Westminster with 20.

The new awards have been presented to Yiewsley Recreation Ground, in Falling Lane, and Hillingdon Court Park, off Parkway, Hillingdon.

The Green Flag awards are managed by a group of independent environmental charities, presented annually, and winners must reapply each years.

There are eight criteria used to judge the Green Flag Awards, these are, being a welcoming place, being healthy, safe and secure, well maintained and clean, sustainability, conservation and heritage, community involvement, and marketing and management.

Councillor Sandra Jenkins, cabinet member for environment, said: "We have more land under Green Flag status than any other London borough.

"It is a fantastic achievement and one that we should all be proud of. We are lucky to have so many parks and open spaces of such high standards and I am pleased to see so many residents and visitors out enjoying them this summer.

"We have a great programme of summer events under way and I am delighted that they can be enjoyed in so many Green Flag parks."