Collett Park in Shepton Mallet has been recognised by the Green Flag Award Scheme as one of the very best in the world, and is the only park in the Mendip area to receive the award.   

The park is among a record-breaking 1,970 parks and green spaces in the UK and 131 in 13 other countries around the world, that today received a prestigious Green Flag - the mark of a quality park or green space.

This international award, now into its third decade, is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent visitor facilities.

Garfield Kennedy, chairman of the Collett Park Management Committee, said: "We still remain the only Green Flag park in the Mendips.

"It is a credit to the town council officers and our ground-care team that for the second year we are in receipt of this honour.

"It provides us with renewed impetus to maintain to the highest level John Kyte Collett's gift to Shepton.

"Our priority must now be to take the best of the recommendations from our recent feasibility study on the future of the park and make sure that it's in great shape for the next 100 years."

Carl Wright, Idverde neighbourhood manager, manager of the ground care team for the park, said: "I am delighted to be able to work with Shepton Mallet Town Council and the community of Shepton Mallet to retain the Green Flag for Collett Park.

"It's wonderful to have so many people involved in the park management and even better that this wonderful gem has retained the Green Flag Status".

Chris Inchley, chairman of Shepton Mallet Town Council, is looking forward to the next steps, which will see the park being used by as many community groups and individuals as possible.

Parkrun, walking groups, children's entertainment and general exercise are many of the activities that take place in the park and it is hoped to build on this base by offering more. 

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: "It's fantastic that we have more Green Flag Awards in the UK than ever before, joined this year by 131 International winners. We congratulate each and every winner on their fantastic achievement."