ONCE, reports of someone being stabbed and another wielding an axe in the street would have been shocking.

Sadly, many are of the opinion that it is nothing unusual in Boscombe.

Efforts have been made to smarten up the area and promote community spirit, but these incidents are unfortunately still all too regular.

Sadly, no amount of flowers in The Crescent will stop this.

It requires real change from everyone, not least the criminal element that we know exists.

The problems run deep – but it’s not too late for everyone to work together.