AN Oxfordshire basketball club which was created to promote the sport in the county has required charity status.

South Oxfordshire Heat Basketball Club has been accepted by the Charity Commission as having met the high standards required for charitable status.

The club was created to improve skills, confidence, health and the general well being of children in Oxfordshire.

It also aims to provide sport for elite athletes, those developing their skills and less able players.

Club activities include operating a South Oxfordshire youth league for teams to compete in a fun environment.

The club has also launched wheelchair basketball training, training sessions for autism charities, training in schools and regular social events to bring young players together.

The benefits of becoming a charity include protection from liability and financial benefits which the club said will be used to help children playing basketball in Oxfordshire.