A PRESTIGIOUS honour has been awarded to five city parks.

Clarence Gardens has successfully retained Green Flag Award, while Rowntree Park, West Bank Park, Rawcliffe Country Park, Glen Gardens and St Nicks Nature Reserve, will receive and fly a new Green Flag this summer.

The Gardens, managed by City of York Council in partnership with Clarence Gardens Bowling Association, is situated adjacent to York Hospital.

It has held the Green Flag Award for five years and boats formal gardens, rose beds, benches, two bowling greens and a children's play area.

The gong recognises the best parks and open spaces across the country and celebrates a space which has the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.

Cllr Nigel Ayre, executive member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism said: "York has wonderful parks and open spaces which offer a vibrant programme of leisure, sport and educational activities as well as opportunities for quiet relaxation."