A Wallingford man has started a campaign to get everyone in the town working together for the community.

John Webb, 55, wants to set up a Wallingford Residents' Association. Mr Webb is a veteran of campaigns in Wallingford, including saving the hospital and trying to keep the Gateway supermarket open.

He is also a member of the tenants' forum of South Oxfordshire Housing Association.

He said: "While I've been involved with all these things as well as most of the churches in the town, I've been asked to speak up for people.

"Lots of folk feel vulnerable when dealing with landlords or councils, police and other authorities.

"I feel a proper residents' association for the whole of Wallingford -- tenants and private owners alike -- would benefit everyone.

"People can do so much more working together than they can do as individuals. The authorities also take more notice."

Mr Webb, a former police officer and local government officer, said: "Wallingford is generally a close-knit community and a caring one.

"We could achieve a lot together because we know the main issues affecting our town on housing and other problem areas.

"Putting our joint efforts behind getting things done is a sure way of achieving success.

"A strong association can also help those who perhaps feel more vulnerable or don't have the time and the energy to sort out problems themselves.

"Initially I am looking for a handful of people to get this idea off the ground.

"Then when we come together as a group to get the best for everyone in the town there is more likelihood of success."

Mr Webb, who lives at the Deanery, said everything should be channelled through Sue Sormaz, the tenant participation officer at South Oxfordshire Housing Association on 01235 515987.

He stressed the new association would be for everyone.