KATHERINE Buchan Meadow in Hanwell was a derelict strip of ground rife with litter, dog mess, drug-dealing and anti-social behaviour.

Since being taken over by the Katherine Buchan Trust, however, it has been transformed and has now won a Green Flag Award for Excellence.

Founded by Amanda Rutkowski and Sim Flemons The land, situated off Green lane and next door to St Mark’s School, has benefited from a crowd-funding campaign and Ealing Council’s Transform Your Space initiative.

Neighbours offered to help and got stuck into clearing and planting the site ‑ and have continued to maintain it.

READ MORE: Sssshhh! It's the quiet hour in Morrisons, Ealing

READ MORE: Lottery grant helps Acton parents communicate

Trust co-founder Amanda Rutkowski said: “We know how important quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors.

“This award celebrates the community support and dedication that has gone into creating and  maintaining Katherine Buchan Meadow to such a high standard."

Since being redeveloped there has been a significant drop in drug dealing, littering and antisocial behaviour.

The Green Flag Awards Scheme is run by Keep Britain Tidy.