Military and light aircraft are disturbing Oxford residents enjoying the warm weather in their gardens, according to city councillors.

On June 16, members of the environment scrutiny committee were given a briefing by Doug Roberts, manager of Oxford Airport at Kidlington.

Councillors told Mr Roberts there were frequent disturbances caused by the RAF's VC10 transport aircraft and smaller, private planes.

Last July, a police training helicopter sparked complaints by hovering for long periods over north Oxford, Blackbird Leys and the city centre.

Mr Roberts told councillors that flying companies, including Oxford Aviation Training, which operates out of Oxford Airport, signed up to a noise amelioration scheme, designed to reduce noise around the airport.

But he added the airport had no jurisdiction over airspace or major flight paths above the city.

Tony Hollander, city councillor for Summertown, said: "Sometimes it seems as if there are droves of private planes taking to the skies on fine summer days."

Jean Fooks, chairman of the committee, added: "The planes are disturbing for people sitting in the garden trying to enjoy the sunshine.

"It was useful to get a briefing from Mr Roberts, but it seems the problems residents have been experiencing are nothing to do with Kidlington Airport."

Mr Roberts directed councillors' inquiries to RAF Brize Norton for their concerns about military flights.

And he suggested they should contact RAF Benson, near Wallingford, to discuss helicopter training flights.

Councillors agreed to seek briefings from officers at both airbases.