EXCELLENT work in a business landscape of "sheer pleasure" has earned glory for a Kent firm.

Coblands Landscapes of Tunbridge Wells won the top National Landscape Award for its maintenance efforts at Turkey Mill Business Park in Maidstone.

Judges for the British Association of Landscape Industries said: "It is rare to visit a site that, wherever you look or wherever you walk, offers such a range of landscape experiences and sheer pleasure. For such a site to be a commercially inspired business park is even more surprising."

Turkey Mill was an impressive project, with woodland, walled gardens, lakes, waterfalls, streams, formal lawns and enclosed courtyards. The judges said: "Turkey Mill sets new standards in business park landscaping and is a great demonstration of the aesthetic value and commercial value of high quality environment."

Coblands won the overall award for its maintenance of business grounds with limited public access. The firm was founded in 1973 and has since carried out numerous contracts across south east England.

Once part of the Coblands Nurseries Group, it has traded independently since 1994 and now employs 30 staff.

The judges paid tribute to Coblands client Turkey Mill Investments, which manages and promotes the park not only for business but also as a venue for social occasions. The 22-acre site is popular for weddings and receptions, and an Orangery is under construction for special events.

Tom Sheldon, of Turkey Mill Investments, said: "This is a tremendous achievement for Coblands and indeed for us."