The people have spoken, and they have chosen Mote Park as one of the top three open spaces in the country.

The council-owned park awarded bronze in the People’s Choice category at the Green Flag Awards, supported by Keep Britain Tidy.

The ceremony was held yesterday.

Mote Park was up against more than 1,400 other hopefuls from across England, including Maidstone’s Whatman and Clare parks.

The trio were automatically entered into the competition after being awarded a Green Flag. The recognition is given to areas that boast “exceptionally high standards, excellent facilities and strong community involvement”.

Cllr John A. Wilson (Con) said: “We’re over the moon. Huge congratulations to the parks team and wonderful volunteers who work so hard to make it such a great place to visit, and thank you to everyone who voted.”

Margam Country Park near Port Talbot, Wales, was crowned the People’s Choice, with Victoria Park in east London taking second place.