North Bradley villagers are celebrating after they were told their recreational ground is officially one of the best in the country.

North Bradley Peace Memorial Trust recreation ground has been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Community Award handed out by the Keep Britain Tidy group for being one of the best community-run green spaces.

The people responsible for the ground had to show it was a well managed, quality green space, which met criteria such as being central to the community and welcoming.

Brian Bond, chairman of the memorial trust, said: “I am delighted the recreation ground was judged to be of award worthy standard again this year, especially as the site has just completed a £45,000 project for various improvements, including adult exercise equipment.”

The recreation ground has been joined by a swathe of other parks up and down the country which are being handed the award for the first time. In 2011, 1,288 parks and green spaces will fly either the Green Flag or Community Award.

Phil Barton, Green Flag Plus Partnership chairman said: “I would like to congratulate the people at North Bradley who have worked hard to keep their recreation ground at a high standard and ensure that it is a pleasant and enjoyable space for the community.”

The recreation ground is in the running for the People’s Choice Award but will face stiff competition from others green spaces in the UK.

This award is based on a public vote. Visit www.keep britaintidy.org/GreenFlag.