A SPECIAL room at the Kassam Stadium for football fans with autism has been given a funding boost.

Housing developer Cybele Homes said it has donated a four-figure sum to maintain the sensory room and run activities there.

Company founder Paul Peros, who is also vice-chairman of the Oxford United supporters' trust Oxvox, said he and his business partner Greg James felt moved to support the room after visiting its launch day in September.

The room, created by Oxford United in the Community and Jigsaw, an Oxford parent carer support group, aims to create a ‘safe and stress-free space’ for people with autism and similar conditions.

It is equipped with light projectors, soft play items, sensory mats and special seating.

Mr Peros said: “The work the volunteers do is amazing.

"Seeing children come into the room, clearly feeling nervous and overwhelmed, and then seeing the team work with them was brilliant.

"The children relaxed so quickly and were happy and smiling in no time. It’s really inspiring."

Kate Longworth, CEO of Oxford United in the Community, added: “We’re so grateful to Cybele Homes for supporting this fantastic project that is so close to our hearts as it helps families bring their children to Oxford United matches and helps them flourish.”

Jigsaw volunteer Hayley Nash said the donation would allow her team to extend some of the activities they offer to parents and children.

She added: "We find they really enjoy sensory hands-on things like cake decorating, and this will enable us to add that to our sessions more often."