Jobs are to be axed at branches of DIY chain Focus, it emerged tonight.

Company spokesman Jill Gater confirmed the branches at Thorney Leys Park, Ducklington, Banbury Cross Retail Park, and Wallingford Road, Didcot, would all be affected by the cuts which are being blamed on the “difficult economic climate”.

A total of 750 jobs will be lost at 181 Focus stores nationally.