Friday 27 July, 2007

Stoke Park and Sutherland Memorial Park have been named as two of the best parks in England and Wales by the Civic Trust's coveted Green Flag awards.

This is the first time Stoke Park has been awarded a Green Flag, and the fourth success for Sutherland Memorial Park. The Green Flag award scheme is the national standard for parks and open spaces. Winners of a green flag must be welcoming, safe and well-maintained with involvement from the local community.

Cllr Terence Patrick, Lead Councillor for Healthy Living, says: "The awards are great news and we are particularly pleased to receive the first ever green flag for the popular Stoke Park. The success shows the council's commitment to providing clean, green and secure parks and open spaces across the borough for both residents and visitors."

Stoke Park, located on London Road, covers 150 acres. It is home to the Surrey County Agricultural Show, Guilfest and other events throughout the year. It also contains Stoke Park Gardens, which features a sensory garden, putting green, children's play area and paddling pool. The park is also home to the Georgian, timber framed Burchatts Farm Barn, which is a popular function venue.

Sutherland Memorial Park in Burpham is home to football, cricket, tennis, bowls and basketball facilities. It also has two well-equipped play areas and seasonal bedding and ornamental shrub planting.

For more information on our parks and open spaces, visit the 'leisure' pages of this website.