NINE open spaces across the Lee Valley Regional Park has been awarded Green Flag Awards for 2017.

The park which stretches from Essex to Hertfordshire is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

Walthamstow Marshes and Waterworks Centre Nature Reserve in Lammas Road, Leyton were among the sites recognised for their high environmental standards.

Shaun Dawson, Chief Executive at Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, thanked the park’s ranger service and the canal and river trust for their work in maintaining the site.

He said: “Each flag is a visual reminder of the continued dedication from Lee Valley staff and the local communities that goes into maintaining our beautiful gardens, vibrant open spaces and heritage sites to such a high standard.”