THE county council spent £1,695 sponsoring an Oxford United home match last month – but said the spend was worthwhile.

Staff spent the time at the Oldham Athletic match to promote the NHS HealthCheck programme and carried out checks on 248 fans.

The council said it was 'delighted' the level of engagement and participation' that it received from United fans on April 7.

Although 20 tickets were provided to the staff, the county council did not take up any of the other benefits offered at the Kassam Stadium.

They include a three-course meal and premier hospitality for 10 people, including a seat along the half way line; half time refreshments; a cash bar; entertainment from a matchday host and a stadium tour.

A framed T-shirt included in the sponsorship was used as an incentive to encourage fans to have a health check. If they took part, they would then be entered in a draw to win it.

The council’s cabinet member of public health and education Hilary Hibbert-Biles said: “We’re delighted with the level of engagement and participation from the Oxford fans, some of whom may now have some extra motivation to focus a bit more on their long-term health.

“We had some really positive discussions about weight management, stopping smoking, alcohol intake and physical activity, and where concerns were raised, most people said they would follow up with their GP.”

The council had last sponsored a United game in September 2014.