Revolutionary play equipment designed to tackle childhood obesity has been installed on an Oxford estate.

The state-of-the-art solar-powered interactive game - known as the i.play - is the first of its kind in the county.

It aims to get youngsters exercising by combining video game technology with traditional outdoor play.

An automated voice speaks to children, giving them instructions for physical tasks.

Wood Farm residents gave the equipment a big thumbs up after it was switched on in the the estate's newly-revamped play area.

Peter Bonney, chairman of the Churchill Community Tenants' and Residents' Association, said: "It's the last piece of equipment we've been waiting for.

"We're getting hundreds of kids going up there compared to what we used to. It's new and they all want to try it.

"It's a big boost - the icing on the cake."

The i.play was created by manufacturer Playdale and Loughborough University-based consultants Progressive Sports Technologies.

Using the video game method of giving players a sequence of tasks, it gets youngsters running, jumping and twisting to interact with activity switches.

Inventors said they designed the equipment after research highlighted the role stealth fitness' - physical activity enjoyable enough not to feel like a chore - played in keeping children healthy.

Activity switches on the i.play are at different heights to encourage an aerobic workout which helps build muscular strength and improves stamina, co-ordination, reaction times and agility.

It adapts to players' performance and provides them with statistics to monitor their progress.

Although the i.play is designed for eight- to 14-year-olds, it is also suitable for adults.

It can be used by people in wheelchairs and those with visual or hearing difficulties.

Caroline van Zyl, Oxford City Council's executive member for a sustainable environment, said: "This is an exciting piece of equipment that is fully interactive and is designed to aid fitness, co-ordination and agility."