AN IMPRESSIVE park in Cradley Heath has been named as one of the best in the country after scooping two prestigious awards.

Haden Hill Park has received the Green Flag, which is the mark of a quality park or green space and celebrated for its environmental standards, visitor facilities and how it is maintained.

There was more joy for the Sandwell Council-run park as it was also named as a Green Heritage Site winner.

Barnford Park in Oldbury and Warley Woods have also been named among the 11 Sandwell parks and green spaces as Green Flag winners.

Sandwell Council leader Steve Eling said: “This is fantastic news – a big well done to all the staff, volunteers, friends’ groups, community organisations and allotment committees.

“They have all helped Sandwell win these prestigious awards. We also thank everyone who uses our parks and green spaces.

“Despite the pressures on council budgets, we’re committed to investing in our parks, cemeteries and crematoriums and improving them for everyone.”

Coun Richard Marshall, the council’s cabinet member for leisure, said: “Our council staff and waste partner Serco work incredibly hard to keep our green spaces clean and tidy, working closely with volunteers and community groups. It’s brilliant that Haden Hill is a Green Heritage Site winner too.

“We’re very proud of our 11 Green Flags in Sandwell – and we’re improving our other parks and green spaces too.”