The multi-millionaire owner of a 17th century listed manor house has defended her decision to install two new modern sculptures.

They are an addition to the gateposts at the entrance to the 17th century Asthall Manor, near Witney.

Oxford architect Robert Franklin has overseen the restoration of the building, but said he had nothing to do with the gates.

Villagers have been perplexed because the sculptures are not in the traditional style of lion's heads, eagles, dragons or coats of arms.

The historic manor's owner, Rosie Taylor, heiress to the Pearson publishing and media empire, said: "Some people in the village have compared them to snails and other things. It is whatever you want them to be. But I am absolutely delighted with them." Mrs Taylor, 40, a former newspaper journalist with a trust fund estimated at 20m, moved in to the former home of the famous Mitford family a year ago. It was the location for Nancy Mitford's book, Love in a Cold Climate.

Rob Parkinson, West Oxfordshire District Council's conservation architect, said it would look at whether the sculptures needed planning consent.