BABIES born in Oxfordshire are set to get an early introduction to their local football club.

Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH) has partnered with club charity Oxford United in the Community and Oxford United to welcome babies born in the county with a club-branded bib.

On average, 20 babies are born in Oxfordshire each day in multiple hospitals or at home – and each one will now be offered a United bib.

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The football club's chairman, Sumrith ‘Tiger’ Thanakarnjanasuth, came up with the initial idea, saying: “I was amazed how many babies are born in Oxfordshire every year and we want as many of them as possible to grow up and support their local team."

Buzz Jones was the first baby to receive his Oxford United bib at the John Radcliffe Hospital.

Proud mum Erin Heffernan, from Berinsfield, said: “It’s lovely that the club’s charity is doing this for the community.

"My grandad is a massive Oxford United fan and he will be over the moon when I tell him about this.

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“We certainly won’t forget this day, and it adds to a special time for our family.”

Jane Upham, clinical midwifery manager at the trust, said the bibs will be offered to families by leaving them in the cots so they can decide 'whether to accept the gesture', adding: "It’s a nice way to welcome people to Oxfordshire.

"We used to be able to see the Manor Ground from the maternity ward window here, so there’s heritage and an extra connection for us with the club.”

Bibs will be given to families at the John Radcliffe, as well as those at the Horton Banbury's Horton General Hospital and at midwife-led units in Wallingford, Wantage, and Chipping Norton.