Victoria Park in Tower Hamlets has beaten off stiff competition to be crowned the nation’s favourite park in this year’s prestigious People’s Choice Award. Organised by Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Plus Partnership, which gives out Green Flag status to the best open spaces in the country, Victoria Park came out on top against a staggering1,424 parks and green spaces in the annual poll. More than 7,000 votes were cast in the competition. Mayor of Tower Hamlets Lutfur Rahman said: “I am delighted that Victoria Park has been recognised nationally for this prestigious award. The park recently underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment and played a starring role during the London 2012 Games as a Live Site. “Visitors from across the country and the globe had the chance to see and use the excellent facilities on offer. “With more than 100 parks and open spaces in the borough, Victoria Park is Tower Hamlets’ crown jewel. I would like to congratulate our parks’ staff whose hard work ensures our green spaces are maintained to such exceptional standards.” The park draws in more than 275,000 visitors a year to enjoy festivals and events which attract international superstars and boasts of a year round community programme. The park continues to grow in popularity after its refurbishment which saw the restoration of historic monuments, new play equipment, the creation of a new community facility and café, the reintroduction of a Chinese Pagoda, improved planting, a new skate park and better sports facilities. Cllr Rania Khan, cabinet member for Culture said: “This is fantastic news that Victoria Park has been voted the best park in the country by the public as they are the best judges. Residents are lucky to have such an amazing park on their doorstep.” Cllr Shahed Ali, cabinet member for Environment added: The council prides itself on maintaining our open spaces to a high standard as they provide essential recreation, play and leisure facilities.” Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “With more than 7000 votes for the People’s Choice Award, it is fantastic to see how much people value their green spaces, recognising the richness they bring to their lives. “There is a fantastic range of winning sites from university campuses to cemeteries, proving that it’s not just traditional parks which provide places for people to relax and enjoy time out from the frantic pace of modern life.” For more information about the People’s Choice Award and Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag scheme, please visit www.keepbritaintidy.org