GHELUVELT Park has missed out on being crowned Best Park in the UK.

The Barbourne Park was one of three parks shortlisted in a nationwide search to find the country’s favourite local green space organised by charity Fields in Trust.

However, at an awards ceremony at Lord's Cricket Ground in London tonight, Telford Town Park was named as the Best Park.

Councillor Andy Roberts, Worcester city council cabinet member for a clean, green and safe city, said: "Gheluvelt Park has always been a jewel in Worcester’s crown, boasting beautiful green areas, the fantastically popular Splashpad play area, an open air gym and a simply wonderful environment to relax and unwind in.

"Being named as one of the UK’s three best parks is a tremendous honour and a reflection of the fantastic work our staff, the Friends of Gheluvelt Park and the Duckworth Trust do to ensure it continues to be an attraction to over 800,000 visitors every year.

"Next year, Worcester City Council plans to invest £250,000 in further improvements to this much-loved park.

"I also want to thank everyone who took the time to vote for Gheluvelt Park in the Fields in Trust awards."

Gheluvelt Park, which is owned by Worcester City Council, was nominated by the council because of its interactive water feature and its play area, as well as its well-maintained gardens and views of the River Severn. The third park on the shortlist was Duthie Park in Aberdeen.