A GIANT children's street party is to be staged on an Oxford estate to celebrate a £250,000 refurbishment of its shopping area.

About 100 youngsters from Barton will get the opportunity to spend an afternoon partying at Underhill Circus in the heart of the com- munity.

The event is being organised by Barton Community Association secretary Sue Holden.

She is keen to make use of a new amphitheatre, which is being built.

Young people between the ages of three and ten can enjoy an afternoon of fun with magicians and clowns and a bouncy castle.

There will also be music playing in the background throughout the afternoon, as well as a long table where young people can tuck into free food and drink.

Mrs Holden said she hoped the day would bring the community together and become the first of many events staged at the new look Underhill Circus.

She said: "I want to show what can be made of the area. It's a place that has stayed still for so long. It will take on a complete new look to what we have always known. This is going to be totally different.

"We will be encouraging children to come in fancy dress and really enjoy themselves.

"It is not a pretty sight here at the moment, but in two months' time it will be very different and it will be time to party."

Mrs Holden says she hopes to raise £1,000 to fund the event and is keen to hear from any local businesses or other organisations who might be interested.

She added: "I'm hoping to get funding from anywhere and everywhere."

The event takes place on Saturday, September 15, between noon and 4pm.