HUNDREDS of footballers battled it out at a city-wide community tournament aimed at forcing home the message about antisocial behaviour.

Teams from neighbourhoods across Oxford took part in the two-day event which aimed to turn informal street kickabouts into proper football training.

Visitors to Cowley Marsh Park on Saturday and Sunday also had the chance to chat to their local officers about any concerns they have.

Last night organisers said the tournament, run by Thames Valley Police and the Oxfordshire FA, was a “brilliant success”.

Wood Farm Pcso Torran O’Dowda said: “We were delighted with the turnout.

“There must have been about 500 footballers taking part across the two days, with many more people coming along to support.

Mr O’Dowda said the tournament helped remove barriers between young people and neighbourhood policing teams.

He added: “It allowed us to reach out in a really affective way with messages about antisocial behaviour.

“Groups of young people kicking a ball about in the street can cause problems for some residents, and we wanted to encourage these lads to take up proper football training.

“Everyone had a laugh and it removes a lot of the division that can sometimes exist between the police and young people. They had a chance to get to know us and find out more about our responsibilities and what we do.”

The over-16s tournament was won by Oxford Stars, while Oxford Academy scooped the under 16 prize and Galacticos won the under 14 trophy.

Union Streets, Positive Futures and Wood Farm Dons won the fair play awards.

Bids were taken on signed Arsenal and Chelsea football shirts which were donated for the tournament. Police say they are still keen to receive offers.

All money raised will be donated to Helen and Douglas House hospice in East Oxford.

Owain Prosser from Oxfordshire FA, praised those who took part. He said: “All of the matches were played to a high standard, producing some fantastic team performances, with respect and fair play evident at all times.

“Oxfordshire FA and Thames Valley Police will look to build on this successful event in the future by offering a variety of football formats to young people in the city. This positive work will continue to develop young players not only as footballers but also as people.”

dhearn@oxfordmail.co.uk To bid for one of the signed football shirts, send your offer and contact details to communityfootballevent@ thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk