Neighbours in an Oxford street got together to build community spirit with an old-fashioned street party.

People living in Pegasus Road, Blackbird Leys, and surrounding streets enjoyed a barbecue, live band and bouncy castle at the afternoon event on Wednesday.

The residents were unanimous in praise for the party, which was organised by Catalyst housing association.

Jim Langley, 35, of Pegasus Road, said: "It's nice and very friendly. Events like this are really good for the community. It's good to come out and meet your neighbours."

His daughter Ellie, four, said: "I have enjoyed the bouncy castle, and I'm looking forward to getting my face painted like a tiger."

The party was the brainchild of mum-of-two Gemma Strong, who painted faces on the day.

She said: "This is supposed to be a community that does things for each other and pulls together.

"I had been here for three years and I hadn't seen anything like this party. I wanted to put on an event like this, because there were a lot of arguments in the streets.

"People got fed up with each other, because there was nothing to look forward to.

"I wanted to do something to bring the community back together."

A live band and sumo-wrestler suits for children were among the attractions at the party, which cost the housing group £1,000.

Catalyst community involvement coordinator Sasha East said: "Events like this get neighbours out talking to each other.

"The children get to play together and let off some steam. The sumo has gone down well and the children didn't want to get off the bouncy castle."

Annett Laughton, a mother of two from Pegasus Road, said: "The party was good. It gave the kids something to do.

"In this road there's a good sense of community."

Another street party is due to take place in Kingfisher Green, Greater Leys, tomorrow from 11am, when families can learn football skills courtesy of Oxford United or decorate biscuits among other activities.