THE AM for Torfaen has championed an award-winning park in her constituency, which narrowly missed out being voted the UK’s best in a charity poll.

Pontypool Park narrowly missed out to Rouken Glen Park in Scotland for the national award, after being voted Wales’ best in the Fields in Trust - formerly the National Playing Fields Association - public vote.

Speaking in the Senedd, Lynne Neagle took the stand to champion Friends of Pontypool Park for their endearing support and hard work, which led to them winning the award.

“I was absolutely delighted that Pontypool Park was named Best Park in Wales for 2016, following a public vote by the charity Fields in Trust towards the end of last year. The park was also shortlisted from 214 entries for the UK's best park award, narrowly missing out to Rouken Glen Park in Scotland,” said Ms Neagle.

"We have so much to be proud of in Pontypool, and the park itself is unique.

“How many parks in Wales, or across the UK, can say that they are home to ponds, Italian gardens, a playground, an historical shell grotto and folly, Pontypool RFC, a leisure centre and even a ski slope?”

Addressing Lesley Griffiths, the cabinet secretary for the environment and rural affairs, the Torfaen AM paid tribute to the members of the friends group.

She added that the park was a ‘gem’ and emphasised the importance of protecting green spaces across Wales.

Ms Neagle said: "Pontypool Park is a gem. In a time of enormous pressure on our green spaces, and the environment generally, it is vital that we all do our best to protect traditional parks that are a part of our civic heritage.”

The minister said: "The availability of green spaces and parks is important to people's health and well-being.

“They provide opportunities for healthy recreation, support biodiversity and contribute to reducing flood risk and air pollution. Everyone should have access to quality green space near to where they live.”