MOST parents dread getting their children messy, but at the West Oxford Community Centre it is encouraged.

Toddlers and their parents got down and dirty during a Messy Play session on Monday, which aims to stimulate youngsters’ senses.

In the weekly sessions, toddlers can use natural materials, paper and recycled material to create as much mess as they like.

This week, milk bottles were transformed into colourful elephants, inspired by famous children’s story Elmer.

Organiser Pieternel Overweel said: “We looked at the pictures then painted elephants cut out of milk bottles with the handle as the trunk of the elephant.

“Then we made a parade out of the elephants.

“It is very great for children to have a space where they can have an adventure and explore without limits.”

Visit messyplayoxford.co.uk