A much-loved playing fields in Watford has been judged as one of the best green spaces in the country.

North Watford Playing Fields, in Gammons Lane, has been awarded a Green Flag Award following a cash injection of approximately £300,000.

The award, given by charity Keep Britain Tidy, is a sign to visitors that the fields boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.

The award is the eighth for open spaces in Watford. Waterfields Recreation Ground was also awarded a flag this year, while Cassiobury, Woodside, Cheslyn House and Gardens, Callowlands, St Mary’s Churchyard and Oxhey Park all retained their flags.

Jane Slatter from The Ridge Residents Association (RRA) accepted the certificate for North Watford Playing Fields on behalf of the group who have worked tirelessly to improve the park by planting trees and clearing litter.

Ms Slatter said: “I am delighted to be able to accept the certificate. RRA have worked hard for many years now to improve our local park, with the support of Watford Borough Council.”

The award scheme began in 1996 as a means of recognising and rewarding the best green spaces in the country.

Also present at the Green Flag awards were councillors, representatives from “Friends of” parks, contractors and other people who played a part in the improvement of the park.

Paul Rabbitts, head of parks, open spaces and projects for Watford Borough Council, said: “We are immensely proud to now have the most Green Flag Parks in Hertfordshire.

“It’s a testament to the hard work by so many park users like Ridge Residents Association as well as the councils partner Veolia who work so hard in keeping on top of the management and maintenance of all our parks.”.