UPTON Marina has been recognised as one of the finest in the country by the Yacht Harbour Association.

Site owner Walton Marine has been presented with the Gold Anchors award following a series of inspections over the past six months.

Confirmation of the award came last week. It was given for safety measures on site, environmental safeguards, high-quality facilities for visitors and consistently good levels of customer relations.

Marina manager Steve Arber said he was delighted at the news.

"It defines the marina as being a quality attribute to the local area," he said.

"This award is given in recognition of the high standards we strive for. This is an opportunity to raise Upton Marina's profile nationwide and, just as crucially, the location of Upton-upon-Severn as a centre of excellence for visiting boat owners."

The Yacht Harbour Association promotes coastal and inland boating facilities nationwide, presenting the Gold Anchors award to the best run and highest quality marinas it visits.