Epping Forest has been awarded a prestigious Green Flag Award reserved for Britain’s best outdoor spaces.

The forest has been handed the award by a panel of expert judges, in recognition of factors such as high environmental standards and use of green spaces.

Philip Woodhouse, chairman of the Epping Forest Management Committee, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive a Green Flag Award this year.

“It is a testament to all the hard work and dedication of all our staff and volunteers at Epping Forest who work tirelessly throughout the year to ensure it is always a wonderful place for people to enjoy.”

The forest, which is owned and operated by the City of London Corporation, stretches from Epping to Leytonstone, incorporating areas such as Wanstead Flats and Walthamstow Forest.

It is one of a record-breaking 1,797 parks and green spaces across the UK to be handed a Green Flag this year.

Walthamstow Marshes and Waterworks Centre Nature Reserve in Lammas Road, Leyton, both part of Lee Valley Regional Park, were among other sites recognised by the scheme.