An amateur dramatics society which has entertained Marlovians for generations is under threat after it was refused permission to advertise its shows, volunteers have said.

The Marlow Players have been staging productions for over 75 years after being set up to bring the magic of theatre to town residents.

The not-for-profit group is currently gearing up for its latest show - George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion - and usually places advertising boards at the roadside on the approach to Marlow to promote its performances.

But Transport for Buckinghamshire has denied the thespians’ request, saying the boards do not meet criteria for acceptable roadside signs.

Disappointed at the snub, Players member Gloria Kendrick Hurst said: "We have been a Marlow society for over 75 years and are self-funding and non-profit making.

"We always strive to increase our audience network as there are so many other entertainments on offer and we do hope that we can survive this rather difficult economic climate and continue to operate for many more years.

"We consider ourselves an important community asset - and need the revenue from ticket sales to enable us to cover our costs and continue to produce our plays.

"We are disappointed that Transport for Bucks are not able to grant special dispensation for societies such as ours."

This year, TfB announced a crackdown on non-official signs and have been removing them from roadsides since January.

Spokesman Dan Elworthy said boards which do not meet its criteria are placed illegally.

He said: "We are unable to comment on previous years activity regards to this sign and its placement.

"We are mindful of unlawful signs which are on the increase around Buckinghamshire, which could be a distraction and danger to all road users and pedestrians.

"Signs which meet the requirements set out in the guidelines are not discouraged."

Pygmalion runs from March 26 to March 28 at the Shelley Theatre, Court Garden. Tickets cost £12 and are available on the door or at Marlow Information Centre on Institute Road.