Harpenden Common has been named one of the best green spaces in the country.

The Common was awarded a prestigious Green Flag Award in recognition that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.

The Town Mayor, Cllr Brian Ellis, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive a Green Flag Award for the ninth year from Keep Britain Tidy.

“This Award recognises and highlights that people in Harpenden are benefitting from a green space of the very highest quality.”

The deputy town mayor and chair of the Town Council’s environment committee, Cllr Nicola Linacre, said: “I would like to thank everyone involved who works so hard to ensure that the Common retains this status year on year.

“I am grateful to the Town Council's officers, our contractors, all those clubs who use the Common regularly and help look after it, and last but not least, our volunteer project workers for their continuing support.”

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd added: “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.”

Harpenden Town Council will be running a number of story time sessions in various Harpenden play areas.

Visitors are invited to bring their favourite book and fancy dress outfit to Westfield Recreation Ground on Wednesday, July 29, at 11.30am, Porters Hill Park on Wednesday, July 29, at 3pm, Marquis Lane Open Space on Thursday, July 30, at 11.30am and Lydekker Park on Friday, July 31, at 11.30am.

Also on Saturday, August 1, a Teddy Bear’s Picnic, will be held at Lydekker Park between 11am and 2pm. Attractions will include Captain Fantastic, bouncy castle, face painting, a Teddy Bear’s hospital and a soccer school.