There are fears in Wantage that popular tea rooms in the town could close.

Madisons tea rooms may close because planning policy says only retail shops should be allowed in prime town centre shopping areas.

The family-run business in the Arbery Centre has called on the Vale of White Horse District Council to reconsider its decision to refuse planning permission for it to move into an empty book shop in Newbury Street.

Madisons will close at the end of July when its current lease expires - and the hunt is on to find new premises in the town.

Owner Andy Jackson said: "The Vale council should show some flexibility.

"We would help stimulate trade and bring people into Newbury Street.

"It's better to have a thriving business than an empty shop."

The Vale has suggested properties in Wallingford Street, Mill Street and Grove Street, but Mr Jackson said they were unsuitable.

Wantage district councillor Bill Melotti said the town could be deprived of a successful business that benefited the commercial vitality of the area.

He said: "This empty book shop has a history of selling refreshments and a tea room there would not be a major shift."

Terry Quinlan, chairman of the Vale's development control committee, said the local plan had only recently been agreed and the council did not want to weaken the policy and reduce the number of retail outlets.

He said: "If we started making exceptions, it would be a dangerous path to follow and we could end up with more tea rooms and no shops.

"I hope the tea rooms continue in Wantage and the owners can find more suitable premises in another part of the town."

Wantage MP Ed Vaizey said: "I have written to all Wantage councillors urging them to support the application.

"I believe the tea rooms will play a vital role in ensuring the vitality of that part of Wantage."