THE village of Stockton Heath has retained its prestigious Purple Flag status for a second year.
It was the first village in the country to receive the award – normally only awarded to towns and cities – and it remains the only village to have received it.
Purple Flag awards are awarded by the Association of Town Centre Management to communities which demonstrate the highest standards relating to the management of the area at night.
Stockton Heath retained its flag following a bid by a local steering group which is run by local residents with support from the parish and borough council, the police and other local organisations.
The assessors were particularly impressed with the level of community participation and the commitment of local residents. An initiative to reward licensed venues for achieving the highest standards was also considered to be a national exemplar scheme.
Sue Dodd, who chairs the residents’ group said: “We are all proud of our village and we are delighted that the assessors have continued to recognise the hard work of local residents and our partners in helping to protect and improve the area. I would encourage as many people as possible to join in and to help us to make a difference.”
