MEMBERS of an Evesham art group have accused a headteacher of “unnecessary censorship” after he ordered their drawings to be removed from an exhibition.

The art by Evesham Life Drawing Group, which includes nude women, was put up in the Arts Centre – part of Prince Henry’s High School in Victoria Avenue – on Saturday for an exhibition in memory of former group member Jan Hall, who died last May.

But by Monday, the group received word that Prince Henry’s headmaster Bernard Roberts had asked for the pictures to be taken down.

Dr Mike Bagshaw, who arranges for artwork to be displayed on the Arts Centre’s exhibition wall, said that he and the group were upset that not only had their work had been removed, but also that they were not consulted on the decision.

“We consider this unnecessary censorship,” he said.

“His [Mr Roberts’] argument is that he needs to protect the sensibilities of pupils and their parents. We think our sensibilities are also important.

“This was a very important event for us because we were dedicating the exhibition to our former group member Jan. She was a wonderful person who used to run the Garage Art Group for people with learning difficulties. I think the work is especially good and represents some fabulous talent in Evesham.”

Arts Centre staff confirmed the exhibition had been removed this week.

As such it is classed as a school building throughout the week and therefore Mr Roberts would have the final say on whether art and exhibitions on display were suitable for viewing by his pupils – aged from early to late teens.

Dr Bagshaw said that he planned to send a letter to Mr Roberts over the matter.

Attempts were made to contact Mr Roberts but he was unavailable for comment.