PAULINE May was one of the first residents to move onto Townsend in 1978. She said: “The estate used to be just council houses; now we have privately owned homes as well as housing association properties. The mix works really well.”

Over the years Pauline, 61, has witnessed many changes. “The first houses were being erected when I moved onto Townsend, streets were still being surfaced and it looked a bit like a building site.

“I came to Townsend from Boscombe when my son was 11 and, despite its troubles, I’ve always felt safe here.”

The community centre secretary and Townsend Together Team member said: “Townsend has had its problems, mainly because teenagers were bored and used to congregate outside the local shop.

“Thankfully, the estate has been transformed and we are all determined to keep it that way. Giving the children something worthwhile to do is the key. The area around Townsend is beautiful and I have no desire to ever leave.”

Christina's such an inspiration

CHRISTINA Trimmer is one of Townsend’s most inspirational residents, having battled against the odds to have three healthy children.

The 38-year-old was born with Spina Bifida but she has not allowed the condition to affect her life. Now wheelchair-bound, Christina is vice-chair of the community centre.

She said: “When I fell pregnant for the first time there were concerns that my baby would also have Spina Bifida. I was told I was high risk and offered an abortion but I have always wanted to be a mother and never even considered it.

“I was on crutches then but I gave up walking when I was seven months pregnant. Apart from blood pressure problems, Samantha’s was a natural birth.”

Following fertility treatment Christina and her husband Glenn, who have been together since she was 18 after meeting at Exeter College, had two more children; Ashley, now 14, and Kenan, 12.

She said: “I get frustrated at times; every day is a bit of a challenge but I just get on with it and count my blessings.

“I’ve lived on Townsend for 11 years; people here accept me, sometimes I wish outsiders were so accepting.

Football sessions are a massive hit

FOOTBALL coach Roche Graydon, 22, is also manager of the recently formed Townsend Spartans Juniors youth team.

She said: “I love football; it’s my passion.”

Her enthusiasm is infectious and free sessions are now held twice a week; on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Players are currently fund-raising for a new football kit. So far they have raised £415. Assistant community liaison officer Caroline Abbis said: “Roche has had such a positive impact on other young people on Townsend; her football sessions are a massive hit.”