VOLUNTEERS are celebrating after their dedication helped three of Redcar and Cleveland’s beauty spots retain their Green Flag Status.

Following a visit by judges from the Keep Britain Tidy campaign, Flatts Lane Woodland Country Park, Saltburn Valley Gardens and Guisborough Forest and Walkway have maintained their high standards to retain the award.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism, councillor Olwyn Peters, said: "These three venues are real jewels in the crown of our borough, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

“We are thrilled with the Green Flag Awards, which are testament to the hard work and dedication of so many people in our communities in making these sites such beautiful places to visit."

Sites are assessed for their Green Flag status by volunteer judges who usually have a background in parks management, conservation or ecology.

They judge against eight criteria testing whether the site or green space is: welcoming; healthy, safe and secure; clean and well-maintained; sustainable; manages conservation and heritage; has community involvement; markets itself, and has good management.