The Barton and Wood Farm neighbourhood policing teams are teaming up with young people on the estates for a football match tomorrow.

The match, which has been funded by the Oxford Safer Communities Partnership, kicks off at 3pm at Oxford Brookes University.

PC Charlie Ellis, who has organised the event, said: “This is a great opportunity for the youngsters in Barton and Wood Farm to not only get to know their local officers better but to also play on the same side and work as a team.

“The match will bring the youngsters of Barton and Wood Farm together in a competitive but friendly environment. Youngsters thrive on competitive sport and in my opinion there is no better way to build and improve lasting community relations.”

Oxford City Council’s Community Safety Manager, Richard Adams, said: “The match will hopefully improve relationships between the police and young people from each estate through team work and mutual respect, which will hopefully have a positive impact on anti-social behaviour and crime in the neighbourhoods.”

The High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, Richard Dick, will be in attendance to present awards to those taking part.

He said: “Not only is sport an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, but it is also a great way to develop closer links with other community groups and to build lasting friendships.

“I hope everyone enjoys the game on Saturday and that it builds on the relationships between the young people of Barton and Wood Farm and the neighbourhood teams.”