The parks, which are owned and managed by local residents, provide free access for everyone at all times and about 24, 500 volunteers have helped to maintain and develop parks all over the county.

The scheme has helped to protect and conserve local wildlife and each park which reached top grades will receive a certificate.

The involvement of those who have given up their free time to help has also been highlighted.

County council cabinet member for voluntary sector, communities and heritage Cllr Ursula Jones said: "Well done to all the volunteers who work so hard to maintain these valuable parks all around our county.

"Not only do pocket parks help ensure everyone has a green space near them, but they also help protect and conserve Northamptonshire's landscape, heritage and wildlife."

There are now 87 pocket parks in the county and the scheme was originally started in the early 1980s to ensure everyone had access to the countryside and there was a home for wildlife on their doorstep.

Gretton Pocket Park, established in 1994 and formerly a plain paddock, was one of the green spaces in the area which received an excellent rating and those involved are delighted by the positive response from the county council.

Park co-ordinator Bob Dobson said: "We had no idea the check was being done and it came completely out of the blue. We are very happy.

"The park is smack in the middle of the village and it's often used by young mothers and children."

However, volunteers at Burton Latimer pocket park have been left confused by the omission of their park from the list of top parks.

Volunteer Maureen Jerram said: "I am very shocked we're not on the list.

"People get involved in volunteering because they are passionate about the environment.

"I have respect for everyone who gets involved and I think they are absolute stars."

The park at Burton Latimer will be holding a duck race with the local Scout group on June 22 and other events held there in the past have included pond dipping.

Anyone who would like to get involved with their local pocket park should visit www.pocketparks.com, have a look at the Complete Guide to Pocket Parks of Northamptonshire folder at local libraries or contact Ruth Douglas on 01604 237222.