A CHESTER country park volunteer has scooped a prestigious award.

Morag Scargill, a member of the Friends of Countess of Chester Country Park, was named volunteer of the year in the Land Trust Awards 2021.

The annual awards recognise the dedication and achievements of the managing partners and volunteers who work with the Trust on its portfolio of parks and green spaces across the UK.

As well as Morag's individual success, the Countess of Chester Country Park was also named joint winner of the inclusive site of the year award.

Friends of Countess of Chester Country Park said: "A huge shout out to Morag Scargill from our team in winning the coveted 'Volunteer of the Year' award at this year's Land Trust Awards ceremony.

"We all know this is so well deserved – she has made such a difference to the Countess of Chester Country Park over the last year and helped so many.

"We're just one of over many, many sites they own across the country so this makes this a fantastic achievement. Well done!"

The organisation added: "The Countess of Chester Country Park was joint winner of the Inclusive site of the year, something we are really proud to be a part of."

Morag was one of the driving forces behind a project to bring a new seating area to the country park – known as 'The Friendly Bench' – which aims to combat loneliness and social isolation by bringing people together.

She also helped organise a collection of food, treats, toiletries and gifts at the country park to help support those less fortunate over the festive period.