WOODBRIDGE'S Elmhurst Park has scooped a top national award that recognises and rewards the best parks and open spaces in the country.The five members of staff at the park – affectionately known as the jewel in the crown of Woodbridge – were awarded for their work at a special presentation in London.

WOODBRIDGE'S Elmhurst Park has scooped a top national award that recognises and rewards the best parks and open spaces in the country.

The five members of staff at the park – affectionately known as the jewel in the crown of Woodbridge – were awarded for their work at a special presentation in London.

This is the first time that the Woodbridge Town Council-owned park has entered the award, which has been running since 1996 and is judged against rigorous standards imposed by the Civic Trust. These include horticultural maintenance, health and safety and community involvement.

A key factor in their success was the fact 25 volunteers, who all live locally, keep an eye on the park when staff are away.

The park, which was donated to the town council by Lord Woodbridge in 1935, has won the right to fly a green flag for a year, although they will have to reapply for the honour next year. It is one of 125 parks nationwide to be awarded with a green flag.

Park manager Lee Nunn said: "It's a feather in our cap. To win a national award really is a major achievement for a town council."

Woodbridge's Elmhurst Park was the only park in Suffolk and the only town council in the country to win the award.

Mac Miles, mayor of Woodbridge, said he was "chuffed to bits" with the award.

He said: "It's a super achievement because the park manager and his staff have put in so much work, this is really a tribute to them.

"We want people to know what a great park it is and we want more people to come and enjoy it."

The park is recognised for being home to more than 40 tree species, decorative floral schemes and various wildlife areas. It also plays host to many musical concerts during the year and hosted a golden jubilee party during the summer.

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