Keep Britain Tidy has announced a record-breaking number of award-winning parks and green spaces for 2014.

Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council’s two country parks, Haysden and Leybourne Lakes, were recognised as two of the very best in the UK.

They are among a record-breaking 1,476 parks and green spaces that have received a prestigious Green Flag Award.

The award, handed out by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, recognises and rewards the best parks and green spaces across the country.

A Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.

Haysden Country Park is set in countryside covering 165 acres and includes a children's play area and a range of habitats.

The park is also a designated Local Nature Reserve and visitors can explore the nature trails that wind through the park.

Cllr Maria Heslop, Cabinet Member for leisure youth and arts said: “I am delighted that these lovely parks have been awarded Green Flags Awards by Keep Britain Tidy once again.

"This Award recognises and highlights that people in Tonbridge and Malling are benefitting from a green space of the very highest quality and I’d like to thank all the volunteer groups, rangers and of course the park’s visitors for helping us to continue to improve and develop the parks.

"It’s great to see the Green Flag flying high once again over these two parks as families enjoy all they have to offer during the summer holidays.”

“We are delighted to announce yet another record-breaking year for Green Flag Award parks and green spaces" - Green Flag Award scheme manager, Paul Todd

Both parks are managed and maintained by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council with the help of local volunteers who meet regularly to carry out organised tasks like litter picking, coppicing and tree planting.

Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “We are delighted to announce yet another record-breaking year for Green Flag Award parks and green spaces.

"A Green Flag Award provides national recognition for all the parks managers, staff and volunteers who, through their dedication and hard work, have helped to create these fantastic places for everyone to enjoy.

"Quality green spaces are a vital resource for communities and that is why it is so significant that we have given out more awards than ever before.”