A NEGLECTED patch of land has been transformed into a “little garden of Eden” thanks to one man’s efforts.

Situated next to the roundabout on Southbourne Overcliff Drive, the land was once overgrown with weeds and strewn with litter.

But bongo player and long-term resident Steve Parson took it upon himself to give the area a makeover so it could be enjoyed by locals.

He said he was pleased to have achieved his vision of creating a “sea of sunflowers”.

“I just wanted to increase the peace, that’s why I did this,” he explained.

“I used to live in a basement flat next to the area – it was dog poo alley and full of brambles and litter.

“I initially took over just a little bit of the land and put a few sunflowers in, but then I decided to dig the whole lot up.

“Now, it’s sunflowers galore and there’s lots of vegetables in there, too. I must have planted around 45kg of potatoes, as well as loads of greens, beetroot, chard, and spinach.”

Although the project has been funded entirely by Steve, he admitted he had managed to achieve the transformation on a ‘shoestring budget’. Although privately-owned, a public footpath runs through the land.

Steve, who plays in the band Dubheart, added the only payment he needed for carrying out the work was “the joy of others”.

“I want people driving past, whether they’re on their way to work or the beach, to smile when they see this. I want to put sunshine into people’s lives.

“I’ve had an absolutely lovely response from people so far, they’ve been bowled over and have been taking pictures while waiting for a takeaway from the Indian restaurant next door.”

Resident Wayne Willet was full of praise for Steve’s efforts, calling the area a “little garden of Eden”.

“It was an awfully overgrown area but now there’s been a phenomenal change. I go there most evenings now.”

Asked what he had planned next for the land, Steve said he hoped to put in some seating for a BBQ area and decorate it with driftwood structures and standing stone artwork.

“I have a lot more faith in people than society gives them credit for, and I believe people will stop littering in this area now.

“I’ll continue with the improvements until someone says no,” he added.