DRIVERS are being warned that 14,000 prospective students will arrive in Oxford next week to attend two Oxford University open days.

Students, parents and teachers will visit the city on Wednesday, June 27, and Thursday, June 28, to visit colleges and university departments.

While students are being advised to leave their cars at home and use public transport instead there will be extra traffic during the rush hours.

Oxford University has been working closely with the county and city councils, transport providers and traders to ensure the days run smoothly and that local businesses are poised to take advantage of the extra trading opportunities generated by the surge in visitors.

Oxford Bus Company managing director Phil Southall said: “It’s always an exciting time in the city and the Oxford Bus Company is proud to be part of such a special time of the year. We provide a special welcome on our park-and-ride services that is fitting to welcome potential students to a world-class university.

“There is always a buzz on the buses and around the city during the open days and it is great to see so many young people visiting Oxford seeking to fulfil their hopes and dreams.”

Information points will be staffed by volunteers on Radcliffe Square and at the corner of Parks Road and South Parks road in the university’s Science Area.

A spokeswoman for Oxford University urged residents to make visitors feel welcome when they arrive.