Outdoor spaces in Kingston upon Thames have attracted nominations for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge.
Kingston is in the running for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge after being nominated for its impressive greenery.
The award will take place in 2012 and will mark two important events – Her majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympics.
The Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames is nominated after Neighbourhood Committees were asked to nominate two sites.
The nine successful sites are Elm Road Recreation Ground, Kingston Riverside, Bullwhips Open Spaces, Claremont Gardens, Tolworth Court Farm Fields, Alexandra Recreation Ground, Dickerage Recreation Ground, Churchfields Recreation Ground and Manor Park.
The two sites which receive the highest number of public votes after the four-week voting period will be crowned Queen Elizabeth Challenge Fields for the area.
The award illustrates the abundance of green space in the borough, also home to a very scenic part of the Thames Path – much used by walkers, joggers and cyclists.
Because of this many in Kingston feel the area has great facilities and all the benefits of being just half an hour from central London yet at the same time with a distinct feel of a stand-alone rural town.
Kingston resident, Jo Watson, said: “The parks and river are great. It’s good to be close to London and historical landmarks like Hampton Court.
“I like having a good shopping centre within walking distance and the houses and primary schools are very good.”
Another resident claimed the river frontage is improving significantly because in the past the town has hid from the beautiful Thames.
Rob Thomas moved to the area from the much-loved Brighton a year ago, thinking it would not compare, but it surpassed expectations.
He said: “Dining or drinking on the river has the feeling of being abroad. The atmosphere is great with the people ranging from the older public to the young with Kingston University and the college.
“There is something for everyone with the museums and library. Love it here.”
