METROPOLITAN PUBLIC GARDENS ASSOCIATION

The MPGA's 'LONDON SPADE AWARD' is made annually at the Association's AGM, to which the Mayors of all the London Boroughs are invited, together with representatives of many organisations with whom the MPGA are associated.

The Award is often given to the promoters of individual projects, who have created, restored or enhanced a park or garden, thus improving the quality of life dramatically for those using it. However, it is sometimes granted to individuals who have rendered great service to London's open spaces, such as in 2002. Generally the winning scheme provides a high level of involvement for the local community, as well as showing ingenuity in sourcing potential funding.

Here are the London Spade Award winners of recent years:

• 2007    The Honourable Societies of the Inner and Middle Temple for their efforts in enhancing their gardens and increasing accessibility
• 2006    London Borough of Lewisham with the Telegraph Hill Association for the restoration of Telegraph Hill, Lewisham
• 2005    London Borough of Lambeth and the Streatham Society for the restoration of Streatham Green
• 2004    London Borough of Hillingdon for the creation of Lake Farm Urban Country Park from derelict land
• 2003    Kings College Maughan Library Garden, City of London, for creation of Contemplative Garden
• 2002    David Jones OBE in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the City of London parks and gardens
• 2001    Transport for London Street Management, for tree planting along London's Red Routes
• 2000    Christchurch Garden, Blackfriars Road, Southwark for restoration led by Bankside Restoration Trust