Bluewater shopping centre has joined a select number of parks and open spaces across Kent to be awarded a Green Flag.

The spaces are judged against eight criteria, including horticultural standards, cleanliness, sustainability and community involvement.

Many of Kent's long-term Green Flag holders have retained the award, including Maidstone's Mote Park and Duorlan Park in Tunbridge Wells.

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The Green Flag Awards are judged by an army of more than 700 green space experts, who volunteer their time to visit applicant sites and assess them

Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme, especially as we celebrate the 20 anniversary of the Awards.

“All the flags flying this year are a testament to the efforts of the thousands of men and women, both staff and volunteers, who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.”

The Green Flag Award scheme, which is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, is celebrating its 20anniversary this year.

In total 1,686 UK parks, cemeteries, universities, shopping centres and community gardens have met the standard needed to receive the Green Flag Award.

A full list of all the award-winning sites is available on Keep Britain Tidy.