Two Harpenden parks have been recognised among some of the best in the UK.

Lydekker Park and Harpenden Common have each received the Green Flag Award, placing them among a record-breaking 1,797 UK parks which are being recognised as quality green spaces for the communities.

The award, now more than 30 years old, is awarded to parks and green spaces which have high environmental standards, as well maintain and have high quality visitor facilities.

Harpenden mayor, Cllr Rosemary Farmer, said: "We are absolutely delighted to receive the first ever Green Flag Award for Lydekker Park and the eleventh for Harpenden Common.

"We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and this award celebrates the dedication that goes into maintaining the sites to such a high standard."

Lydekker Park, left to the people of Harpenden by Miss Hilda Lydekker in memory of her loves ones lost in the First World War, has areas of open grassland and pondlife, while Harpenden Common is home to several sports clubs and events such as Harpenden Carnival and Classics on the Common.

This year also boasts the highest number of parks receiving the honour.

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: "Each flag is a celebration of the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.

"The success of the scheme, especially in these challenging times, demonstrates just how much parks matter to people."

Lydekker Park will play host to a teddy bear's picnic on August 2 to celebrate National Play Day, with attractions such as soft play, story time with Hertfordshire Library Service and face painting kicking off from 11am.