THE green flag is flying high at Pennington Hall Park for the 13th year running.

The Leigh park was awarded the prestigious Green Flag again, one of five areas across the borough to receive the recognition.

Meanwhile, among the others given the award was a space maintained and managed by volunteer group the Bridgers. Colliers Corner, which is supported by the council’s improve a green space initiative, scooped another community award.

A flag-raising ceremony will take place on October 18 at Colliers Corner in Howe Bridge, attended by the mayor, council officers and volunteers from the borough’s Friends of groups.

Cllr Paul Prescott, cabinet portfolio holder for environment at Wigan Council, said: “Both before and during the pandemic, our borough’s parks and greenspaces have proved to be an invaluable lifeline in supporting residents’ mental and physical health.

“We are thrilled that four parks in our borough have been recognised for their excellence once again. To have achieved this accolade reflects the hard work of staff, Friends groups and other local volunteers in making our parks wonderful places to visit.”

A Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.

Pennington Hall Park

Pennington Hall Park

The Green Flag Award scheme, which is run by Keep Britain Tidy under the UK Government Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, celebrates amazing green spaces and sets the benchmark standard for the management of outdoor spaces across the UK.

Terry Daly, who is chairman of the Bridgers Community Group, added: “I would like to say a massive thank you to volunteers past and present from the Bridgers Community Group, Atherton Environment Projects, the Gardner’s Bowling Club, local residents and our locally elected council members whose support and help has been absolutely fantastic.

“This help and support has helped us to improve and maintain Colliers Corner, making it the beautiful space it is today.

“During the past 18 months, which has undoubtedly been one of the most challenging and traumatic periods of our lives, all of our volunteers have been immense. In addition, the support we have received from Wigan Council, Moss Bank Nurseries, Bees and Things, Atherton Town FC and B&Q Leigh has been amazing too. We’re thrilled to once again be recognised in this way.”

The awards come as Wigan Council ends its first Go Green Week which has focused on climate change and how being in nature can positively impact the health of residents.