Nowhere demonstrates people deserting the high street and the loss of pride in our communities better than Ashley Road, Parkstone, over Christmas.

No festive lights again this year, no Christmas trees either end on the roundabouts like there used to be – and most shops cheerless and uninviting.

Not so long ago all the traders had Christmas trees in brackets fitted to the walls and Mr Bubb, the chemist, sponsored the Christmas tree on Seaview roundabout.

A few establishments like the Victoria Cross pub made a good effort with their window displays but the majority didn’t, including the biggest, Waitrose.

Upper Parkstone has always been the poor relation compared to the more affluent areas of Westbourne, Ashley Cross and Broadstone and has been neglected over the years, but with a bit more goodwill and help from the council at least at Christmas, we could put a bit of pride back into this once vibrant community.

VIC POINTS, Cranbrook Road, Parkstone