THE Grand Western Canal Country Park has won a Green Flag Award for the 16th year in a row. 

Meandering for just over 11 miles between Tiverton and the hamlet of Lowdwells, this part of the original Grand Western Canal to Taunton opened more than 200 years ago in 1814. 

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces. 

This year Green Flag judges increased the points they awarded to the Grand Western Canal. 

It follows a range of improvements to visitor facilities over the last year, including new noticeboards and interpretation panels along the towpath and new video displays in the visitor centre. 

Cllr Andrea Davis of Devon County Council, which manages the nature reserve, said: “...I want to congratulate all the staff and volunteers because the retention of the Green Flag Award is entirely down to them; their hard work and the time and effort that they invest every day ensures that the highest standards are maintained year after year.” 

Chair of Devon County Council Cllr John Hart praised the Tiverton Canal Co, which operates the horse-drawn barge Tivertonian along the canal. 

He said: “The barge provides a wonderfully peaceful way to step back in time and quietly enjoy the canal’s wildlife and heritage.   

“It is one of only two horse-drawn trip boats left in England and is a unique selling point for Tiverton and Mid Devon, attracting large numbers of tourists and boosting the local economy.   

“Last year the barge’s operator, the Tiverton Canal Co, won a Devon Tourism Award and their successful operation is reliant on excellent management and maintenance of the country park by the canal ranger service.”