CHERRIES legend Steve Fletcher visited a community allotment project to see the difference it was making.

The AFC Bournemouth striker went along to the New Leaf Community Allotment in Throop, which is funded by the Green Goals initiative.

He said: “It is great to see how the project is enhancing the community and inspiring people from all walks of life. I could see how much it meant to them and that it is a huge and meaningful part of their lives.

“I hope to visit again in the future because what they have is something special and it is an inspiration to others.”

The allotment has been transformed from a wasteland to a working allotment with vegetable and fruit plots, polytunnels and an apple orchard, and is also looking to produce its own honey from a number of hives on the site.

Established by BCHA, the 1.2-acre New Leaf provides educational opportunities to individuals and groups, volunteering opportunities for all and as well as affordable local produce.

Funding from Green Goals, a partnership involving the football club, borough council and various other organisations, has helped New Leaf to put new tools in the hands of their eager team and has seen the site grow.

Geoff, one of the volunteers involved, said: “Since popping down to see what things were about at New Leaf, I have been there most weekdays.

“I am more than happy to give my time to something like this, where those involved are really trying to make a difference to the community and local families.”