KEEP Wales Tidy has unveiled this year’s Green Flag Award winners – the international mark of a quality park or green space – with one proudly flying to recognise the work of an important community project in Pwllheli.

In total, 112 community-managed green spaces in Wales have met the high standard needed to receive the prestigious Green Flag Community Award – up from 101 in 2017/18.

These sites rely on volunteers to maintain their excellent facilities.

The flag will be flying at Canolfan Hamdden Dwyfor in recognition of its excellent facilities and commitment to delivering great quality green space.

Brian Jones one of the lead volunteers shared the personal and collective benefits of being involved in the gardening project.

He said: “Initially I was referred to the National Exercise Referral Scheme by my GP. The objective being to help reduce blood pressure, assist with weight loss and increase physical activity. After 16 weeks, this was achieved.

“In order to continue with physical activity and enjoy the friendship with others, I became a volunteer.

“The garden is a year-round project even during inclement weather therefore, it has become a permanent diary entry. It has provided a vehicle to enable opportunities for the continuation of physical activity, exercise and motivation.

“As well as from a personal perspective, it allows individuals with physical and health issues to regain confidence and skills which they may have been unable to achieve over the recent past.

“Those of us currently involved find the project very enjoyable and stimulating with plenty of fresh air and fantastic exercise on offer.”

The Green Flag Award programme is delivered in Wales by environmental charity Keep Wales Tidy, with support from Welsh Government.

It is judged by green space experts, who volunteer their time to visit applicant sites and assess them against eight strict criteria, including horticultural standards, cleanliness, environmental management and community involvement.

Lucy Prisk, Green Flag coordinator at Keep Wales Tidy, said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Awards in Wales. All the flags flying at community sites are a testament to the dedication and enthusiasm of local volunteers who work tirelessly to raise the standard of our green spaces.

“I’d encourage everyone to get outdoors this summer and enjoy the fantastic facilities we have on in the area.”