RESIDENTS of a Boscombe conservation area say they face "misconceptions" about their neighbourhood.

Allegations that Churchill Gardens has been a popular site for drug addicts who leave used needles in the street have previously been reported in the Daily Echo.

However, ward councillor Jane Kelly, Sophie Ricketts of Operation Galaxy and Rory Fletcher, chairman of the Friends of Churchill Gardens say the "diverse" area is home to a friendly and welcoming community.

Mr Fletcher, who has lived in the area for the past four years, said: "There's a culturally diverse mix of people here.

"Everybody gets along. It's a lovely place and there's a strong community feeling."

Residents plant vegetables in a community allotment beside the park and join leaf-clearing sessions, while the play park is popular with families throughout the year, he added.

"The allotment is fantastic. People grow potatoes, courgettes, onions - there's even a walnut tree," he said.

"Anyone can come along and help themselves to vegetables for their dinner.

"It's a focal point for the gardens, and everyone in the community can get involved if they want to."

Ms Ricketts said much work has been done to "develop and nurture" the area. A number of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) have been turned into flats by landlords in recent years, she added.

Large scale 'envirocleans' are also planned for November 28 and December 12.

The cleans will see streets 'cleansed', with lines re-painted, roads repaired and street lighting checked.

Ms Ricketts said: "Things like that can make a huge difference.

"It freshens and brightens everything up."

Earlier this week, it was revealed that Churchill Gardens is a finalist in the Fields in Trust UK's Best Park competition.

The park is described as "stunningly beautiful and vibrant" on the Trust's website.

Other parks in the conurbation, including Kinson Common, Poole Park, Redhill Common and Upton Country Park have also been nominated in the 'south west' category.

Cllr Kelly said the success of the area is largely down to its residents.

"There is to a certain extent an element of transience, but many residents have stability and are here because this is where they want to live," she said.

Owners of some properties in Churchill Gardens have been told by the council to carry out improvement works or face further action.

Ms Ricketts said: "This type of work is a benefit to the entire area, and ultimately to the homeowners themselves too."

Mr Fletcher added: "We want people to be enthusiastic about this and see it as a really good thing for Churchill Gardens."