Youngsters living in Oxford will have the chance to race against police officers on Formula 1 simulators at a community action day on Saturday.

Barton Neighbourhood Centre is hosting the event, which is aimed at young people and families living in Barton, Sandhills and Risinghurst.

There will be music, dancing and sports activities for all ages.

Throughout the day, visitors will be able to get their bicycles postcoded, which helps police recover them if they are stolen, learn from firefighters about free fire alarm installations and talk to the RSPCA about dog microchipping.

Barton neighbourhood officer Sgt Yak Teladia, of Thames Valley Police, said he hoped the community would support the event.

He said: “We want to show residents what agencies are working for them — there are lots of people working to make Barton a better place.

“It’ll also be an opportunity for the young to get involved in activities and meet groups like the Army Cadets — it should be great fun.”

Local dance group Messy Jam will be performing, as well as Isis Dance Academy, Oxford Music School, Bayards Hill School choir, Oxford Sport and Traditional Martial Arts School and several city-based DJs.

At midday, there will also be a sports day for six- to 13-year-olds, with a host of prizes up for grabs.

Barton youth worker Robert Jolliffe said highlights would include local youngsters pitting themselves against the police officers, PCSOs and street wardens on the F1 simulators, as well as budding performers from the community showcasing their talents.

He said: “It should be a great day to remember for all sections of the local community.

“There will be a lot of talent on show and bags of entertainment.”

Police and park rangers from the city council aim to spend time removing graffiti from the neighbourhood and litter picking during the event, which takes place at the neighbouring centre in Underhill Circus between 10am and 4pm.

Residents in Barton have organised several similar community events in recent months.

At the end of September, more than 150 women pampered themselves for a pound for the estate's annual therapy day, while three weeks earlier St Mary’s Church played host to the Oxford Urban Artz Festival.