THE Grand Western Canal Country Park has received a coveted Green Flag, which recognises the best green spaces in the country.

The accolade comes the first time the waterway was entered for the award.

Canal manager Mark Baker picked up the award from TV personality Michaela Strachan at a presentation ceremony in Bournemouth last week.

Mr Baker said: “The award was great news.

“The flag shows people that the canal is a well-managed site and a safe, welcoming place, with good standards of maintenance.

“It is a good promotional tool for all the businesses along the canal too.”

Cllr Des Hannon, who represents Tiverton East on the county council, said: “Local people already know the canal is the jewel in Mid Devon’s crown.

“The country park is enjoyed daily, for free, by countless walkers, boaters, cyclists and anglers.

“This Green Flag award is a great way to spread the news further afield and bring in more visitors.”

The application for the award, which has to be made annually, came after the completion of the Grand Western Canal Country Park LNR Management Plan, which was approved last October.

Independent judges visited the site to assess the maintenance and management of the country park.

Cllr Ray Radford, who represents Willand and Uffculme, said: “I’m sure everyone will be aiming to maintain the Green Flag.”