Seafield Gardens in Seaton is the latest of East Devon's parks and green spaces to be awarded the coveted Green Flag Award.

It joins Seaton Wetlands nature reserve, Connaught Gardens in Sidmouth and Manor Gardens in Exmouth which have maintained their Green Flag status.

More than 2,000 parks and green spaces across the country have earned a highly sought after Green Flag Award. The flag is a sign to the public that these spaces boast the highest possible environmental standards, are beautifully maintained and have excellent visitor facilities.

The Green Flag Award has even greater significance this year for the dedicated Wild East Devon and StreetScene teams at East Devon District Council who, despite the pressures and challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, have seen their efforts recognised.

The council is extremely proud to have these four prestigious open spaces for people to enjoy and is immensely grateful to its hardworking staff and volunteers for their unstinting efforts.

Cllr Geoff Jung, East Devon District Council's portfolio holder for Coast, Country and Environment, said: "I would on behalf of everyone in East Devon and from all of our councillors say a big massive thank you to all the Wild East Devon and StreetScene staff, volunteers and officers who have again produced wonderful results and awards for our open spaces, in what has been a very challenging period.

"Open spaces, public gardens and access to nature play an important part in enjoying the outdoors and add hugely to the wellbeing of residents and visitors at these challenging times."

Keep Britain Tidy Chief Executive Allison Ogden-Newton OBE said: "This year, more than ever, our parks and green spaces have been a lifeline and we know that millions of people have used them to relax, meet friends, exercise or simply escape for a short time.

"It is testament to the incredible dedication and hard work of parks and Local Nature Reserve staff and volunteers that, despite the challenges that went along with record numbers of visitors, East Devon District Council has achieved the highest international standards demanded by the Green Flag Award."