Green spaces in Weymouth have been recognised as some of the very best in the country.

Greenhill Gardens and Sandsfoot Gardens have both won a Green Flag Award, as part of the scheme by Keep Britain Tidy which recognises and rewards well managed parks and green spaces.

The gardens are among a record-breaking 1,970 UK parks, and 131 in thirteen other countries around the world, that received the prestigious award on Monday.

The international award signifies to the public that the space boasts high environmental standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent visitor facilities.

Graham Winter, Mayor of Weymouth Town Council said: "It’s an amazing achievement to win these awards once again and is testament to the hard work of the parks team and Friends groups.

"We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and this award celebrates the dedication that goes into maintaining Greenhill and Sandsfoot Gardens to such a high standard."

The Green Flag Award was launched to recognise the the work of managers, staff and volunteers who manage parks and green spaces across the UK.

Jane Chandler, chairman of Friends of Greenhill Gardens, said: "We would like to congratulate Weymouth Town Council’s parks and gardens staff on achieving the prestigious Green Flag for the thirteenth year running for Greenhill Gardens.

"The Green Flag judges were impressed with the new celebration arch to honour our longest reigning monarch and thought it was a welcome addition to the gardens."

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said it a record-breaking numbers of Green Flag Awards were handed out this year.

He said: "Each flag honours the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award. We congratulate each and every winner on their fantastic achievement."