A CLECKHEATON park has been awarded Green Flag status thanks to the efforts of volunteers.

West End Park now boasts the prestigious accolade, which is a sign to the public that the space has high environmental standards, is well maintained and has excellent visitor facilities.

Martin Webster, chairman of the Friends of West End Park, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be awarded Green Flag status after six years of effort by volunteers with growing support from our community. We hope that the current reduction in both central and local funding, together with inexorable pressure for house-building space, is not allowed to further lessen the value of green spaces for our health and well-being."

Paul Todd, from the scheme, said: "We were particularly impressed by the innovative pet memorial and quirky bird houses together with a wonderful floral displays that was almost completely instigated, designed, planted and maintained by one volunteer, Margaret Atkinson."