Alton Water has been given a huge thumbs up by a national body.

The park between Holbrook, Stutton and Tattingstone has been handed a Visit England quality assurance visitor attraction award after a stringent inspection by the body's officers.

John Taylor, Alton Water's head ranger, said: "Well done to all the team and the visitors that help keep our park clean and tidy. It is great work by everyone and we hope you continue to enjoy Alton Water."

Visit England offers quality accreditation to visitor attractions participating in the Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme, including museums, art galleries, safari parks, gardens, historic houses, theme parks and more.

Attractions are independently visited by our team of experienced quality assessors and offered support and guidance to improve the quality of their visitor experience.

Visitor attractions can gain a Visit England Accolade for exceptional facilities. Accolades include Quality Food & Drink, Hidden Gem, Best Told Story, Welcome and Gold.

The accolade follows on from the park receiving a Green Flag Award last October from environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, in recognition of being safe, clean and looked after well.

Owned and managed by Anglian Water, Alton Water Park is a haven for migrating and resident birds, other wildlife, and an abundance of fish.

Despite the pandemic, and a short closure, staff at Alton Water have worked hard to ensure walkers, cyclists and water pursuit lovers can enjoy the park and reservoir safely.

Over the past four years, park warden John Taylor, has overseen growth of facilities at the park, with camp site, mini-golf, extra cafe among the extra facilities.

The introduction of highland cattle has also proved popular with kids and adults alike.

UP CLOSE with Alton Water's Hairy Coos