Six parks in the borough are vying to be crowned the nation’s best.

Voting in the People’s Choice Awards is now open and residents can back one of the six parks in the borough to be given a prestigious Green Flag Award in July.

They are Mary Stevens Park in Stourbridge; Priory Park, Buffery Park and Wrens Nest National Nature Reserve in Dudley; Leasowes Park in Halesowen and Silver Jubilee Park in Coseley. Councillor Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member for environmental, highways and street services, said:

"We are constantly working hard to ensure that our parks maintain their quality standards and excellent facilities. That work is backed up by a number of active and hard-working Friends groups and volunteers who deserve recognition for their efforts in keeping our green spaces looking lovely.

"I know everyone enjoys using their local parks. We would love it if you could take the time to vote for your favourite in the People’s Choice Awards."

Last year saw tens of thousands of people voting for their favourite park, with winners coming from all across the UK, from London to Lanarkshire. Paul Todd, International Green Flag Award Manager said:

"This year we have had more Green Flag Award winning sites than ever before, The People’s Choice Award is an opportunity to show how much your favourite park means to you. Make your voice heard and vote now.

"You can find your nearest parks at greenflagaward.org. To vote for your favourite, find it on the map and click the vote button. Voting closes on 30 September, with the top 10 winning sites being announced on 15 October."