IT was a day of fun as the people of Pokesdown proudly celebrated their past and future.

The community got together on Saturday at the revamped green opposite the railway station.

The day saw the unveiling of a new village sign post by Bournemouth East MP Tobias Ellwood, as well as a plaque detailing the area’s history.

There were stalls, vintage steam engines and cars, cakes, music from the Salvation Army Band and singing by Wessex Chorus.

Pam Ruthvan, from Pokesdown Community Forum, said: “We have spent two years doing this; we had £22,000 from the lottery.

“It was all overgrown so we spent money on plants and shrubs and we’re going to plant oak trees.

“There will also be hundreds of daffodils as well.

“Pokesdown was here before Bournemouth, Southbourne and Boscombe – today is about celebrating it all.”

The 14-feet high sign carries the seal of the former Pokesdown Urban District Council.

Residents have been fighting to mark the area’s history, which goes back to 1580, predating Bournemouth.