The International Dark Sky Association (IDA) has confirmed that Galloway Forest Park, Scotland, is among the best locations in the world for stargazing after being awarded Dark Sky Park status.

Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) has worked with Wigtownshire Astronomical Society and lighting experts as part of a bid to become the UK's first Dark Sky Park in order to attract more tourists to the area. Galloway Forest Park's bid to the receive the designation, which took more than a year to prepare, was submitted six weeks ago and approved at the IDA's annual general meeting in Phoenix, Arizona - held between 14-15 November.

Scottish environment minister Roseanna Cunningham said: "The interest in this initiative has been world-wide. The award is great news for putting Galloway Forest Park firmly in the spotlight and for attracting more tourists to the area." Martin Morgan-Taylor, UK board member for the IDA, added: "A core aim in creating such a park is to identify and honour protected public lands with exceptional commitment to, and success in implementing, the ideals of dark sky restoration and preservation."

The first Dark Sky Park status, which recognises a park or public land with "exceptional" starry night skies and natural darkness, was awarded to the Natural Bridges National Monument in Utah, US, in 2006. Cherry Springs State Park in Pennsylvania, US, was designated as a Dark Sky Park in 2008, while Geauga Park District's Observatory Park is the third US park.

Image: Forestry Commission Scotland