A NATURE reserve in Andover has picked up a prestigious Green Flag award for another year running.

Green Flag awards have been awarded to three Test Valley parks - including Rooksbury Mill Local Nature Reserve in Andover.

The War Memorial Park in Romsey and Valley Park Woodlands in Chandler's Ford were also honoured.

This award has now been consistently presented to all three parks for more than a decade, recognising the quality and value that these well-managed spaces bring to the community.

Andover Advertiser: War Memorial Park in Romsey also won an award War Memorial Park in Romsey also won an award

Test Valley Borough Council said it was proud of the achievement and that it works hard to thoroughly plan green spaces to enable sustainable, long-term investment to maximise the way spaces are used and enjoyed.

Portfolio holder for countryside and climate, councillor Alison Johnston said: “Test Valley Borough Council is committed to providing quality green spaces, to provide places for fun, recreation, health and high-quality space for the borough’s wildlife.

“By virtue, our space should be benefitting both wildlife and people. These awards acknowledge that, which is wonderful.”

Portfolio holder for community and leisure, councillor David Drew said: “Free to access parks and green spaces is so important. These areas provide a sanctuary for communities to experience nature, exercise, and togetherness.

“High quality, well-managed green spaces are a vital part of healthy sustainable communities. They are an essential aspect of everyday life that communities feel passionately about. Thanks to the hard work of council officers, to which these awards are a testament.”

TVBC owns and manages over 400 hectares of land which is categorised as green space.