It has taken some stick from locals with some describing it as "depressing", a "s***hole" and a place that makes Bournemouth "look like the south of France" but many say Poole is a great place. Most of the residents and visitors I met defended Poole when I was in the town last week. A few others complained about the High Street, antisocial behaviour and "no go areas".
One elderly gentleman said he said he felt "vulnerable" walking around Poole, writes Jon King, in the Express . Debbie Smith, 57, moved to Poole from London eight years ago with her husband, John Smith, and said neither of them want to go back. She said: "We love it here.
There's lots of restaurants. It's accessible in lots of places. A lot of people put down Poole, but I think it's wonderful.
" The full-time carer said the Dorset town is friendly, clean and especially in the summer there is always something going on. Mrs Smith said: "We have no regrets about moving." We were speaking on the town's quayside on a sunny September day as visitors ambled past yachts and tour boats lining the harbourside, which boasts views across to Brownsea Island and RSPB Arne nature reserve.
Debbie described Poole as an ideal point to explore the surrounding area as well, recommending nearby Knoll Beach, Lake Pier, Durley Chine and Studland. Poole's tourism website also hails the town's maritime heritage, pottery industry links, bustling Old Town and "fabulous" eateries. Husband and wife Leigh Williams, 67, and Jayne Williams, 64,.