GREEN Flag Awards have been handed to two of Oxford Brookes' campuses for the fifth year in a row.

The Headington and Harcourt Hill campuses were given the award after being judged as two of the best green spaces in the United Kingdom.

The awards are handed out every year by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy.

Each location is judged by more than 700 green space experts who volunteer their time to visit the sites and assess them against eight criteria including horticultural standards, cleanliness, sustainability and community involvement.

Oxford Brookes grounds manager Tom Williams said: "I am delighted that Oxford Brookes has retained its Green Flag status for the Headington and Harcourt Hill campuses.

"A Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.

"I would like to thank every member of the grounds team who has helped maintain our beautiful outdoor spaces – it is their hard work that has led to this recognition."

Oxford Brookes is one of nine universities to have been given the award.

Green Flag Awards 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."