Anne Smith, a former classical pianist and music teacher, moved into her car in Chiswick, west London, 22 years ago after protesting against her greedy landlord.

The local council is now threatening to move on what has become a permanent fixture in the leafy residential road.

Hounslow council wants to introduce new parking restrictions.

Miss Smith has lived in the car for 22 years

Neighbours are divided over whether she should be left alone.

Edward Jones, one of her supporters, said: "She does not wish to place herself on the council's support and she has been very careful not to accept any offers of help.

"She is determined to be independent and to live life in her own way".

But with an asking price of around £500,000 for properties in the area, other people see an unblemished surrounding area as a minimum requirement.