A DETERMINED group of residents enjoyed a community fun day today (Saturday, August 22) in an estate which was once plagued with drug problems.
The Ray Lodge Estate in Woodford Green was dubbed an 'estate of Fear' in the media back in the mid-90's when residents said they were living in fear from rife drug use and random violence.
Today, the area's biggest problem is graffiti and minor anti-social behaviour.
Sadly, according to one community-spirited mum, although the estate has changed, it's reputation is still stuck firmly in the past.
Pascalia Raymond, 37, has lived on the estate since 2007 where her daughter Regina, was born.
Miss Raymond said she wanted to show that just because Ray Lodge was an estate, it didn't mean it was a bad place.
She said: "There's always a stigma when people say they're from an estate. We're just normal hard working people, families trying to make ends meet.
"Personally I'm not a negative person so it doesn't bother me but we just want all our neighbours to come along and join in with our community."
To change that Miss Raymond and the other residents, who form the Tenant Management Organisation, decided to throw today's festivities to help improve their reputation.
Ray Lodge TMO chairwoman Judith Wright, 65, has lived on the estate for 14 years and admits it has come a long way.
She said: "It did have a bad reputation, but it deserved it at the time, there were lots of problems with drugs but that's all over now.
"Now we have a lovely mixed community and everyone gets along beautifully, days like this just show how far we've all come."
Families enjoyed a BBQ, DJ's, bouncy castles, face-painting, bric a brac and a raffle.
Local police and fire officers were on hand to meet with locals and offer free advice and fit smoke alarms.
The day also had another aim. Although many of the residents have lived side by side for years, many admit that they don't know their neighbours.
Linda Rockson, 32, said; "I don't know all my neighbours, I don't know why it is, I guess people just keep themselves to themselves.
"When I first moved here I used to be a bit intimidated by the kids, but now I know them, I know they're good kids who basically need something to do.
"I think this whole day has been brilliant."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel