Paddington Rec has won its 16th consecutive award

THIRTY parks within the City of Westminster have been given Green Flag awards as part of the Keep Britain Tidy scheme.

Now in its third decade, the scheme recognises the best parks and green spaces in the country, to try to inspire people to be litter-free and live more.

Paddington Recreation Ground, the largest open space owned by Westminster City Council at 27 acres, received its 16th consecutive award.

The council cabinet member for environment, sports and community, David Harvey, said: “Parks play a really important role in local communities, offering the opportunity to play sports, take walks and relax.”

Other award winners include Hyde Park, Soho Square and Victoria Embankment Gardens.