THE largest public rock garden in the country is in the running to be named the best park in the country.

Preston Park Rockery in Brighton has been shortlisted in the Fields in Trust’s search to find the UK’s Best Park.

It has been shortlisted alongside Castle Gardens in Antrim, Pontypool Park in Torfaen and Rouken Glen Park in East Renfrewshire, after more than 10,000 public votes were cast and more than 200 parks nominated.

The nominators of each of the four shortlisted parks have been invited to Lord's Cricket Ground to represent their parks at the Fields in Trust Awards on November 30 where the overall winner will be named.

The rock garden has been restored by volunteers and City Parks staff with year-round planting.

Andy Jeavons, Preston Rockery garden manager, said: “I am absolutely thrilled with it being shortlisted.

"I nominated the garden because of the fantastic comments I constantly receive from the public praising the garden.

"The colour, interest and variety of wildlife we get is stunning."

Cllr Gill Mitchell, environment committee chairwoman, said: “It’s great that the Rockery has been shortlisted for the UK’s best park and council staff and volunteers are getting the recognition they deserve for all their wonderful work."