DARWIN Gardens Millennium Green in Ilkley has been recognised by the Green Flag Award Scheme as one of the very best in the world.

Darwin Gardens Millennium Green joins 68 other green spaces awarded recognition in Yorkshire and Humberside.

The Darwin Gardens Millennium Green is among a record-breaking 1,970 UK parks and green spaces and 131 in thirteen other countries around the world, that will today receive a prestigious Green Flag Award – the mark of a quality park or green space.

This international award, now into its third decade, is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent visitor facilities.

Darwin Gardens Millennium Green occupies a site adjacent to Wells Road in Ilkley.

It is situated only a few minutes’ walk from the town centre by a quarter mile attractive pedestrian route, and has fine views of the famous Ilkley Moor, which directly overlooks the site.

Ilkley Town Council Clerk, Mrs Louise Close said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive a Green Flag Award.

“We have received such awards continuously since 2005 and are very proud of our record in the improvements over the years to the Gardens.

“We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and this award celebrates the dedication in particular, former Councillor Brain Mann and the groundsman, Philip Judd give to maintaining Darwin Gardens Millennium Green to such a high standard.”

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “It’s fantastic that we have more Green Flag Awards in the UK than ever before, joined this year by 131 International winners.

“Each flag honours the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award. We congratulate each and every winner on their fantastic achievement.”

The Green Flag Awards Scheme (http://greenflagaward.org/) is run by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, in partnership with Keep Scotland Beautiful, Keep Wales Tidy and Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful.

Any green space that is freely accessible to the public is eligible to enter.