“SHOCKWAVES” sent through a community by a screwdriver attack on a passer-by have led to the transformation of a troubled Boscombe thoroughfare.

Outraged residents and traders formed the Friends of Roumelia Lane group after Nick Verron, 26, was stabbed through the head with a screwdriver by Jason Teelin, 18, last July.

Teelin was sentenced to seven years in jail for grievous bodily harm with intent at Bourne-mouth Crown Court in April.

Community worker, Shirley McKenna, said the “horrendous” attack had prompted a raft of improvements to the road and now plans to hold a fundraising day for Nick with local bar Chaplins.

Watch our interview with Nick and his mum Sue Vincent about how their lives have been affected by the attack

“The shockwaves this produced in Roumelia Lane resulted in us forming a ‘friends’ group to put pressure on the council and police authorities to make Roumelia Lane a safer place for residents and traders.

“We now have CCTV installed, a new regeneration office has been opened, and plans are afoot to improve the roadway and to turn it into a one-way traffic system,” said Shirley.

Dorset Police and Bournemouth Council have teamed up with the Friends of Roumelia Lane to host a “blue light street party” on Saturday, July 24.

A benefit gig will be held in nearby Chaplin’s Wine Bar to raise funds for Nick. Owner, Harry Seacombe, said local people had been touched by the family’s plight.

Shirley said a similar event held last year raised about £1600 for a local housing charity.

“We’d like to buy something for Nick and his family to show how much people around here care. He may need a piece of equipment, or even a holiday,” said Shirley.

Bands, barbecues, and vintage police vehicles will feature in an alcohol-free family fun day between 12pm and 5pm.