JUBILEE Gardens in Ely has won its ninth Green Flag – the prestigious national award handed out by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy.

The gardens are one of 1,447 parks and green spaces which have been recognised across the country.

There will soon be a new Green Flag flying by the entrance to the area as a sign to visitors that the space boasts the highest possible standards and is well maintained.

Councillor Richard Hobbs, chairman of the community and environment committee, said: “The Green Flag award recognises the huge amount of work, dedication and sheer enthusiasm of all the council staff, Friends of Jubilee Gardens and local people who have made Jubilee Gardens what it is.

“The park is in an ideal location with a beautiful riverside setting and magnificent cathedral backdrop incorporates trees, flowers, sculptures and a bandstand. It also acts as a community facility for a wide variety of outdoor events such as fetes, fairs and open-air concerts.”

Opened in 2002 by Prince Phillip to mark the Queen’s Jubilee, the gardens celebrated its tenth anniversary last year.