A respected art group, which has exhibited in the University Parks for almost 20 years, is threatened with closure because of new traffic restrictions, writes Nick Evans.

Oxford Bury Knowle Art Group has shown its paintings on the railings next to the parks, in Parks Road, Oxford, every summer since 1983.

But the tradition is threatened because the introduction of double yellow lines on Parks Road has led to a reduction in the number of artists.

Derrick Holt, organiser of the exhibitions, said: "This is one of Oxford's unique attractions, but the group is now down to a handful from more than 2,000 and everybody is feeling it might just have to stop." Mr Holt, 75, who was treasurer of the group until last year, said the problem was that many of the group were pensioners who needed to drive to the exhibition.

He said: "Most people can't carry armsful of paintings and, if turns cold or wet they need somewhere to shelter quickly so we need to park on the road.

"Most elderly members of the group are really upset. This group is their life. They paint during the winter and exhibit during the summer."

Millicent Simmie, of Burlington Crescent, said: "I have been hanging my paintings since 1972. We really don't know what we can do about it."

Until last year the group was able to use the car park of Keble College opposite the railings for free, but this year the college has decided to charge.

Mr Holt, of Fortnam Close, Headington, added: "This is a real disaster. The group is so popular with tourists and with locals."

A spokesman for Oxford City Council said the introduction of double yellow lines was an important part of the changes introduced under the Oxford Transport Strategy.