Three single mothers have set up a youth club for children on an Oxford hosuing estate.

Kay Phillips, Candice Phillips and Simone James, who all live at Wood Farm, decided it was time somebody did something for children, who had nowhere else to go, apart from hang around outside the shops in Atkyns Road.

The mothers, who met at a healthy eating initiative, are using their own money to arrange activities for about 30 children, aged eight to 15, at Wood Farm Community Centre.

IWCA councillor for the ward, Claire Kent, has added her support, helping the club to secure funding to pay its rent for a year.

Kay Philips, who has a two-year-old daughter, said: "There was absolutely nothing for youths in Wood Farm. The main problem was people were intimidated by them gathering at shops.

"The police were at the shops every day and it was getting worse and worse, but now, because the community has got together and started to do something about it, things are getting better.

"Now they can build friendships, instead of arguing out on the street."

The club members can play table tennis, snooker or use computers on Sundays, from 5pm to 7pm, free of charge.

The mothers went round the estate giving out fliers to let people know about the club, which the youngsters have named Wood Farm Paradise Crew.

Ms Philips said: "Claire Kent has been an absolute dream. She has helped us so much, contacting lots of people on our behalf and helping us get a grant.

"Within the next couple of months we'll be able to organise an outing. It's absolutely amazing."