New hockey kit is keeping sporting mental health patients from Oxford's Littlemore Hospital smiling.

Tom Milward and Robin Ellard are pictured in action.

The hockey team was formed in June by Thomas O'Dwyer, sports instructor from the hospital's physiotherapy department.

Mr O'Dwyer has already set up successful football and volleyball teams with patients.

He also takes them swimming, horseriding, to the gym, and playing tennis regularly.

"The football team is called the Coasters, and we've been to a tournament in Italy, where we played with similar teams from all over the world," said Mr O'Dwyer.

The sports are used to help patients suffering from mental illnesses including schizophrenia and personality disorders.

"Playing sports lifts their mood, and they get a sense of achievement from being part of a team.

"It helps them overcome their illnesses, especially depression," said Mr O'Dwyer.

The new hockey kit was sponsored by Monarch taxi firm.