A poll by the Long Live the Local campaign and More in Common found that 58 per cent of people in the South East blame either national or local government when a pub shuts down.

The findings have sparked warnings from campaigners that politicians must prioritise the sector ahead of the local elections.

Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “Despite recent important support from the Government and the many MPs across all political parties that champion pubs and brewers, voters clearly believe that there is still more to be done.

“Pubs are the soul of the community, create jobs, and, with a quarter of a million people joining our Long Live the Local campaign that supports the people behind the pint, including thousands in the South East, it’s no wonder people care about them so much.

“What the public want is a fair tax system for pubs, one that keeps business competitive and recognises their unique role as valuable spaces for communities across the country.

“We’re calling on the Government to continue to work with us and deliver permanent business rates reform, lower employment costs, cut beer duty and VAT to save countless locals who are burdened with huge regulatory costs.”

One third of respondents said fairer business rates would be the most impactful way to support pubs.

However, fewer than one in 10 said their MP had spoken up for the sector, and just four per cent believed their MP was doing enough to protect pubs.

The research follows January’s Budget U-turn for pubs.

Luke Tryl, executive director at More in Common, said: “One thing comes through really strongly in this polling, the British public really care about pubs, they think they are a central part of their community and they don’t think the Government is doing enough to protect them.

“In fact, over half of British voters blame national or local government for pub closures and want to see politicians at all levels doing more to stand up for them.

“At a time when the Government already finds itself struggling with a restless electorate a wave of further pub closures will only reinforce the frustration that those in charge are unable or unwilling to deliver for local communities across Britain.

“On the flipside taking action on issues like rates is one way the Government can show that it gets it, recognises the value of pubs and gets the public back onside.”

Sabe has moved into Building 92, The Parachute Store, a 968 sq ft heritage facility at the 444-acre Bicester Motion site in Oxfordshire.

The company delivers services across simulation, design, testing, and performance analysis, and has experience working with hypercars, supercars, and America’s Cup elite sailing teams.

Gerson Garsed-Brand, founder of Sabe, said: “Bicester Motion felt like the obvious choice as we enter this next phase of growth supporting our client-base.

“The location, culture, and energy of the place are genuinely unique, and closely aligned with what we do.

“Being part of a community that lives and breathes automotive and engineering innovation is hugely important for us.

“The Parachute Store gives us a distinctive base, and we’re looking forward to embedding ourselves within the wider ecosystem here.”

The company has been a key partner to the Cadillac Formula 1 team, supporting the development of its computational fluid dynamics (CFD) processes, data infrastructure, and ongoing aerodynamic performance work.

Sabe offers end-to-end aerodynamic services, from concept design and simulation to wind tunnel testing and bespoke software solutions.

The move from Silverstone Park’s innovation centre to Bicester Motion signals a major step in the company’s growth plans, including expanding its UK team to 11 by September this year and broadening its international reach.

Building 92, dating back to 1926, originally housed parachute-related activities and retains features such as controlled ventilation and temperature regulation.

Sabe’s arrival marks a return to Bicester Motion for its founder, who previously worked on-site during a collaboration with PhysicsX.

Daniel Geoghegan, chief executive officer at Bicester Motion, said: “Sabe is a fantastic addition to Bicester Motion and a strong reflection of the calibre of businesses choosing to locate here.

“Their expertise sits right at the forefront of high-performance engineering, and their work across Formula 1 and beyond speaks for itself.

“The Parachute Store is one of our most characterful buildings, and it’s fitting to see it brought back into active use by a company shaping the future of performance.

“Sabe’s arrival further strengthens our position as the home of automotive and mobility innovation, where heritage and cutting-edge engineering come together.”

Bicester Motion is home to over 50 pioneering mobility businesses, including the Audi Revolut F1 Team, Motorsport UK, Skyports Infrastructure, and Polestar’s UK headquarters.

In summer this year, YASA, the Mercedes-Benz-owned University of Oxford spin-out, is due to relocate its circa 400 staff to Bicester Motion’s The Ranges.

Cala Homes has launched its first Showhome of Support initiative at its Bliss Willows development in Chipping Norton, as part of its Community Pledge.

Under the scheme, a three-bedroom Rowan showhome and a four-bedroom Laurel showhome have been styled using accessories from independent businesses across Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds.

Alex Richards, regional managing director at Cala Chiltern, said: “We are very excited to bring our Showhome of Support initiative to Bliss Willows.

“It’s a terrific way to champion local businesses, and our new showhome in Chipping Norton is full of unique touches thanks to these fantastic creators.

“From artwork and candles to artisan food and accessories, the showhome reflects the character of Oxfordshire.”

The curated collection includes bread flour from Bruern Farm Shop, a wooden bowl from Oats Shop, Cotswolds Dry Gin from the Cotswolds Distillery, and a scented candle from the Cotswold Candle Company.

Other featured items include a ceramic coffee mug from the Beehive, landscape art by Josephine Trotter, and a reed diffuser from Hyde and Home.

Businesses involved are highlighted with signage throughout the showhome and profiled on Cala’s website.

Bliss Willows offers two- to five-bedroom homes within a new community setting that includes allotments, play areas, and open space.

Cala said all homes are built to its signature high standards, with modern layouts and quality specifications throughout.

Showhomes are now open. To book an appointment, go to the Cala Homes website.