NINE parks in Lewisham borough have been given a Green Flag Award.

The awards are given out annually by the Civic Trust charity for parks and green spaces in England and Wales which have met national standards.

And this year Bellingham Green, Catford, itself an award winner, hosted the announcements on July 17.

To achieve the distinction, open spaces are judged on a variety of criteria, including their safety, cleanliness, conservation and community involvement.

Other parks awarded Green Flag status include Brookmill Park in Deptford, Chinbrook Meadows in Grove Park and Cornmill Gardens in Lewisham.

Also being given the award were Manor Park and Manor House Gardens in Hither Green, Sydenham Wells Park and Telegraph Hill Park, New Cross.

The Horniman Gardens in Forest Hill, run by the Museum Trust, is also a Green Flag holder.

Announcements were made by the director of local economic development and renewal at the Government-run Communities and Local Government, Daniel Thornton.

Staff from Glendale Grounds Management, which maintains the grounds, and Lewisham Council will attend the winners' awards ceremony in Liverpool later this month to celebrate.

Deputy mayor of Lewisham, Councillor Heidi Alexander said: "It takes a great many people, people who really care, to maintain and develop these green spaces.

"They are vital to everyone to relax, learn and have fun in. Without this team effort and the dedication and hard work involved, awards like these wouldn't be achieved."

In addition to the Green Flags, Devonshire Road Nature Reserve in Forest Hill won a Green Pennant Award, a first for the borough.

Also given out the by the Civic Trust, Green Pennants are awarded to community and voluntary groups who successfully manage their own green spaces.

The Devonshire Road Nature Reserve in Forest Hill is managed by the Friends of Devonshire Road Nature Reserve community group.