BLACKBURN with Darwen is celebrating a hat-trick of green awards.

The accolades, given to green spaces in the borough, have been awarded by the Civic Trust.

Witton Park, Blackburn, Hoddlesden Millennium Green and Safe Haven Garden, Darwen, were all winners in the Civic Trust's annual award ceremony.

Witton Park received a 'Green Flag' award, while Millennium Green and Safe Haven Garden both received a Green Pennant.

To achieve the awards each was assessed by judges who decided that Witton Park was "a valuable educational resource" and that among its many strengths were the quality of facilities, the conservation of the buildings, the marketing and promotion and the community involvement offered.

According to judges Safe Haven was: "A safe, accessible and educational resource resulting from a concerted community effort."

The judges were particularly impressed with Safe Haven's "involvement of local children in carrying out practical tasks is to be commended. This will foster local pride".

On the Millennium Green in Hoddlesden the judges stated: "The green provides a safe haven for people of all ages and physical abilities to meet, take exercise and participate in events, a natural moor land stream, wild flower meadow and bluebell wood".

To conclude, they added that the Millennium Green "enjoys the support of a very enthusiastic and well-organised community group".