Pubs are facing a fight for their future. That is the bleak outlook given by campaigners as the Oxford Mail reports on yet more closures.

The Campaign for Real Ale fears 15 per cent of pubs in the county could call last orders within 10 years after 13 more pubs closed in the past 12 months.

Oxford branch pubs officer Tony Goulding believes the future of the traditional British pub is under threat.

We’ve been here before, but nothing seems to change.

There are now estimated to be 797 pubs in Oxfordshire after the loss of 68 in the past five years.

Not enough people seem to be using the local boozer. So, why should we worry?

But, the point is, people probably would use them, if there was an incentive.

Landlords are being pushed to the brink as they battle increased taxes on alcohol, the smoking ban and cheap supermarket booze.

You can’t argue with the economics and people drink at home.

The trend seems to be for many drinking holes to diversify into food, but is it enough?

If politicians are serious about the ‘local’ and its role as a community hub, then they must do more, something, to help the publican... and fast.