THE Grand Western Canal Country Park has once again received the five-star ‘Pride in Parks’ award.

It’s the second consecutive year that the country park has gained the highest rating from the Pride in Parks initiative operated by the Royal Horticultural Society’s Southwest in Bloom.

The award winners were announced at a spring event at RHS Rosemoor in Torrington.

Feedback from the judges this year highlighted how impressed they were with the displays in the Canal Visitor Centre, the extensive towpath resurfacing work that took place last year, and the role that volunteers play in helping the Canal Rangers to maintain the area to such a high standard.

Tiverton Town Mayor, Councillor Neal Davey, recently presented the award plaque and certificate to the Canal Ranger Service team.

Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, County Council Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Biodiversity, said: “It speaks volumes that the Grand Western Canal Country Park has retained this prestigious five-star status from the Royal Horticultural Society’s Southwest in Bloom.

“A lot of hard work and dedication from staff and volunteers goes into maintaining the canal and the park. Their efforts ensure it’s a great place for wildlife as well as being a popular attraction with visitors and local people.”

Councillor Les Cruwys, Chair of the Grand Western Canal Joint Advisory Committee, said: "As the years go by the Tiverton Canal and the Country Park go from strength to strength, its use by locals and those from further afield grows every year. While many see it as a natural beauty spot they don't see the work put in to keep it looking so natural.

“This is down to Mark Baker and his team plus volunteers whose efforts over and above his job description are greatly appreciated. The stream of awards the canal has received over many years is testament to their hard work and the care shown to it by our own community. The Tiverton Canal Co is a major part of the Canal's attraction and we are so pleased with the successful transfer to its new owners."

Councillor Neale Raleigh, County Councillor for Tiverton East, said: “This is a well-deserved achievement that reflects the hard work, pride, and care shown by everyone involved in looking after this much loved local asset.

“The Grand Western Canal continues to be one of Mid Devon’s greatest treasures, and this recognition is something the whole community can take pride in.”

The Pride in Parks award is another impressive achievement for the Grand Western Canal Country Park, which will also be aiming for its 18th consecutive Keep Britain Tidy Green Flag Award later this year.

The canal extends more than 11 miles through Mid Devon. The Canal Basin in Tiverton provides a range of facilities including a visitor centre, and it is home to the traditional horse drawn barge, operated by the Tiverton Canal Co, which has been running passenger trips along the canal for over 50 years.

For more details, see the Grand Western Canal Country Park webpage.