Botanic garden tops lottery poll

The garden's iconic glass house was designed by Sir Norman Foster

The National Botanic Garden of Wales in Carmarthenshire has been named the UK's favourite Lottery-funded environmental project in the National Lottery Awards.

It took the title in a public vote and was the only Welsh representative in any of the seven categories.

Director Kevin Lamb said winning the award would have "an amazing impact" on everyone working there.

In 2004 it was within hours of calling in administrators, but has since seen a turnaround and a rise in visitors.

Mr Lamb said: ""We are absolutely thrilled to win this award and would really like to thank everyone who voted for us.

"Winning will have an amazing impact on everyone at the project - this is a great way for us to thank all those who have been involved and helped us to make the most of our Lottery funding.

"The funding has allowed us to develop and conserve these fantastic gardens which are enjoyed by the whole community."

Bird haven Slimbridge in Gloucestershire - which is also the headquarters of the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust - and the Dunes Coastal Park in the Outer Hebrides were also short listed for the best environment project award.