A wildlife haven has been named as one of the best in Britain for the fourth year running.

Long Lane Pasture, in Finchley, has received a Green Flag Award by the Keep Britain Tidy campaign.

The site is one of 1,582 parks and green spaces to receive the award today, which recognises high standards and excellent facilities.

The park, a remnant of the original Finchley Common, was originally used for making hay and grazing horses.

It is now run entirely by volunteers and relies on donations, and managed on a lease from Barnet council.

Dennis Pepper, chairman of the Long Lane Pasture Trust, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive a Green Flag Community Award for the fourth year running, especially as it is the only one awarded in the London Borough of Barnet from Keep Britain Tidy.

“This award recognises and highlights that people in Finchley are benefitting from a green space of the very highest quality

“This achievement is entirely due to the imagination of our hard-working management committee and our volunteers. In eleven years, we have transformed a bramble-covered wasteland into a peaceful haven for wildlife, and a place for enjoyment for the people of Finchley.

“We are especially grateful for the mayor, Councillor Mark Shooter, who formally opened a magnificent gazebo in June, paid for with a grant from Barnet council, to enable us to educate school groups whatever the weather.”

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “All the flags flying this year are a testament to the efforts of the thousands of men and women, both staff and volunteers, who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.”