Children were given a display of police equipment when the tactical support unit paid a visit.

Members of Heyford Park Youth Club tested equipment including helmets, shields, and a battering ram during a visit by officers from the specialist Thames Valley Police unit.

PC Pollock shows off some hardware

Pc Tim Pollock and colleague Ryan James gave the 11- to 16-year-olds a guided tour of their armed response vehicle and showed them some of the equipment, including guns.

Ziyaad Ismail, 13, said: "I've only ever seen armed police on TV and it was really cool to get all dressed up and hold the equipment that Tim and Ryan use."

Pc Pollock, pictured showing a weapon to Jarrod Nesbit, 11, said: "I'm always really impressed by the mature response we get from young people who come along to our talks." The Tactical Support Unit, which is made up of about 50 police officers, deal with incidents that can involve firearms and searching of crime scenes.

Anyone interested in joining the youth club should call Paula Hind, community development worker, on 01869 233536.