GREAT Notley Country Park has received the prestigious Green Flag Award for the second year running.

The facility – which has over 100 acres of open space with continuous interactive play equipment and sensory trails – was one of seven country parks in Essex to retain the award. Belhus Woods, Cudmore Grove, Danbury, Hadleigh, Thorndon and Weald were the other country parks achieving the Green Flag Awards accolade, which recognises well managed, high quality park areas.

Now Essex County Council has launched a summer offer to encourage all residents to get out in the open air to visit the venues, as well as Cressing Temple and Marsh Farm. A Summer Season Ticket can be purchased for �20 and offers visitors unlimited parking across all seven parks, unlimited entry for the whole family to Cressing Temple and one free adult day pass to Marsh Farm. Entry to Cressing Temple and Marsh Farm saves ticket holders at least �29 and all are valid until September 15.

Cllr Jeremy Lucas, cabinet member for Customer Service, Environment and Culture, said: “The announcement of the Green Flag Awards is testament to the high quality country parks that we have in the county. The parks are beautiful places to visit with lots going on and I recommend that people come and see the parks for themselves. They are a great place to visit and keep the whole family entertained and with our new Summer Season Ticket, provide good value for money.”

For information or to purchase a Summer Season Ticket see the website visitparks.co.uk or call 0845 603 7624.