NEW Ferry Butterfly Park has been awarded a Green Flag for the seventh year.

The community-run nature reserve is among a record-breaking 1,970 UK parks and green spaces and 131 in 13 other countries around the world that have received the honour which recognises a quality park or green space.

The 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".

Developed on the former railway sidings at Bebington station, New Ferry Butterfly Park is home to at least 17 breeding species of butterflies, plus many bees, spiders, woodlice, hoverflies, other mini-beasts and a pond with smooth newts.

The park also has an art trail and industrial history trail.

It is open to the public every Sunday afternoon, 12-4pm, until September 8.

It is a nature reserve run by Cheshire Wildlife Trust.

The park's founder, Dr Hilary Ash said: "We are delighted to receive a Green Flag Award for the seventh year.

"We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and this award celebrates the dedication that goes into maintaining the Butterfly Park to such a high standard.

"The Park is run by volunteers, and new helpers are always welcome, whether to do practical work, wardening, leading groups or fund-raising.”

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."

"Each flag honours the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.

"We congratulate each and every winner on their fantastic achievement."

For details on New Ferry Butterfly Park, see

www.wirralwildlife.org.uk

and

www.cheshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

or ring 0151 327 5923.