A PARK once painted by artist John Constable has been named as one of the best in the UK for a fifth year running.

Wivenhoe Park, on the Essex University campus, has been voted as one of the best ten in the country at the Green Flag People’s Choice Awards.

It was the only place in Essex to get the accolade.

As well as housing the university since the 1960s it is home to wildlife including rare bees, moths and spiders.

There are thousands of trees, three lakes, a frisbee golf course and 40 acres of sports fields.

John Constable painted the park in 1816 and his masterpiece hangs in the National Gallery of Art, Washington DC.

Marcus Clayton, grounds manager at the university, said: "To be named as one of the nation's top ten favourite parks for the fifth year running is absolutely incredible.

"It is a fantastic milestone and a real testament to the hard work and dedication of our green-fingered grounds team.

Gazette:

"The recognition from the community also makes this award so special, and we are overjoyed that so many students, staff and Colchester residents enjoy Wivenhoe Park.

"Being the custodian of this historic parkland is an honour and an important part of the role I and the whole team play.

"Thank you so much for your support, and I hope everyone enjoys Wivenhoe Park as much as we love working here."

Gazette:

The park was designed by Richard Wood in 1765 having originally been a deer park.

The famous mansion, now known as Wivenhoe Park House, was originally commissioned in 1759, and has since been visited by Nelson Mandela, as well as Queen Elizabeth II.

Other parks in the UK top ten were in Watford, Nottingham and Strathaven.

This year’s poll was completed by over 18,000 people casting their vote to decide on Britain’s best loved green and open spaces. 

To find more information about the current and past winners, visit greenflagaward.org