AN antiques centre in Oxford’s High Street remains under threat of closure as no-one has yet come forward to take over the lease.

There are about 30 specialist antique dealers based at Antiques on High but they will all be left without premises if no-one takes over the lease, which is due for renewal in March.

Book dealer Tony Sloggett is the current business owner and has run the centre, owned by University College, for the past 11 years.

But he is 72 and will trade only online once the current lease for the premises in High Street comes up for renewal.

Caroline Henney, who sells vintage costume jewellery and accessories at Antiques on High, said the threat of closure remained.

She said: “The doors at Antiques on High will be locked and bolted for good at the end of February if someone does not take over from Tony Sloggett.

“We have had a few serious enquiries and we are still hoping for a future for Oxford’s antique centre but as yet nothing has been confirmed.

“The premises should be used for something appropriate and an antique centre fits perfectly here.”

Antiques on sale include jewellery, postcards, coins, maps, books and prints and Islamic items.