An organisation that trains disadvantaged people in Banbury is calling on Cherwell District Council for help to find new premises.

The Ethnic Minority Business Service (EMBS), based in two small rooms above shops in Parson's Street, runs free courses in IT, business start-up skills, sewing and English as a second language for more than 280 people.

Chief executive Dr Shaila Srinivasan said: "We have a very cramped, small space and increasing numbers of students each year.

"Cherwell District Council has been totally indifferent to us. We need a proper centre with everything under one roof. We have applied for every single grant possible, but have received nothing."

Barry Wood, Cherwell's executive member for policy, said: "I appreciate what is being said, but the council has a very limited budget for helping organisations such as this. While I would not want to shut the door on the EMBS, we would have to review further applications for help very carefully."

EMBS trains people introduced by the Job Centre, through Learn Direct, and the Learning and Skills Council. The service was originally started in Oxford and expanded to Banbury five years ago.