Bow Creek ecology park, formerly an ironworks, shipyard and coal wharf site, has received a prestigious Green Flag Award for the fifth time.

The park in Canning Town is among a record-breaking 1,447 parks and green spaces to receive the award from environment charity Keep Britain Tidy.

The national award recognises and rewards the best parks and green spaces across the country. A Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to visitors that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.

The park is a wildlife haven where visitors can see newts and water scorpions to flocks of wading birds, or just take some quiet time to escape from the hustle of the surrounding city.

There is also an outdoor classroom for school and youth groups, giving young people an insight into nature.

The announcement comes during Love Parks Week where people are encouraged to visit and take part in events in parks and open spaces on their doorstep and further afield.

Martin Page, Green Space Manager for Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, said: “We are absolutely delighted to retain the Green Flag Award for Bow Creek Ecology Park.

“Lee Valley Regional Park attracts around 5 million visits a year and this award recognises and highlights the very highest quality, well-managed green space that visitors can benefit from.”

Lee Valley Regional Park stretches 26 miles along the River Lee from Ware in Hertfordshire to East India Dock Basin on the Thames. Its 10,000 acres comprise a diverse mix of heritage sites, nature reserves and open green spaces alongside world class sports venues, attracting over four million visitors every year.