A LOCAL campaigner joined forces with Oxford United women's team to raise enough money to help the children of Gaza play their beloved sport.

Chaka Artwell is hosting a grand auction and fundraiser next month in a bid to raise £10,000 to visit the Palestinian territory and hand out footballs.

Mr Artwell, who ran as an independent candidate for Barton and Sandhills in the recent local election, said: "Two years ago there were four children under the age of 10 playing football on a beach in Gaza and they were killed.

"This was so hard on my heart so I got in touch with numerous football clubs and said I wanted to send footballs to the children, as they have such a tough life. Oxford United were really supportive.

"So what I want to do now is actually raise enough money to go to Gaza and meet the children, give them footballs and then make a short documentary and tell the people of Oxford about it."

The auction organised by Mr Artwell is being held on June 13 at 7pm at the Methodist Church on Cowley Road and everyone is invited.

He added: "We can do this and let the people of Gaza know we have not forgotten them. I just want to say to the people of Oxford to come and support this event by helping us raise lots of money."