It's time to say a sincere thank you to the people who give so much to our green spaces and ask for so little in return.

Among the 2,127 British parks and green spaces to receive a coveted Green Flag 2021 are Dawstone Park and Heswall Dales - as the scheme celebrates 25 years as the international quality mark for parks.

After 18 months that have seen green spaces become lockdown lifelines, playing a vital role for people across the country as places to relax, exercise and meet friends and family safely, the news that a record number have achieved the Green Flag Award standard is testament to the hard work and dedication of those tasked with looking after these national assets.

Green Flag Award Scheme Manager Paul Todd said: "I would like to congratulate everyone involved in the 2127 parks and green spaces on their achievement.

"To meet the requirements demanded by the scheme is testament to the hard work of the staff and volunteers who do so much to ensure that their site has high standards of horticulture, safety and environmental management and is a place that supports people to live healthy lives."

Dawstone Park is an oasis of calm that bridges Heswall Town centre and the Lower Village, while it is hard to believe the natural beauty of the Dales - a local nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific interest - is just minutes from busy Telegraph Road.

Both places have fabulous views across the Dee Estuary to the Welsh hills.

We are lucky to have two such sites to enjoy - thanks to the volunteers who help make them possible.

To read more Heswall Nub News about Dawstone Park and its history, please click or tap here.