Butterfly Park recognised as one of UK’s best green spaces

This year a record number of parks and green spaces have collected a Green Flag Award. Wirral Borough has 27 for public parks, plus just one Community Award – New Ferry Butterfly Park.

The Park is among a record-breaking 1,970 UK parks and green spaces and 131 in thirteen other countries around the world, that have received a prestigious Green Flag Award – 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.

New Ferry Butterfly Park is a community-run nature reserve developed on the former railway sidings at Bebington station. It is a nature reserve of Cheshire Wildlife Trust. The 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. It also has an art trail and industrial history trail. It is open to the public every Sunday afternoon, 12-4 pm, until the 8 September. Guided groups can be arranged at other times.

Hilary Ash said: “We are delighted to receive a Green Flag Award for the 7th 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.” Find information about the Park on www.wirralwildlife.org.uk and www.cheshirewildlifetrust.org.uk or ring 0151 327 5923.

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.”