Estate agent and property consultancy Savills has announced its sponsorship of The Villager, a Queen’s Award-winning community bus service, for 2026 – supporting a volunteer-run transport network that connects remote rural communities across the north Cotswolds.
The Villager was established in 1982 to address limited access to shops, healthcare and essential services for residents living in isolated villages without private transport. More than four decades later, the service now operates across 54 villages and carries around 450 passengers each week.
Using smaller 16-seater buses, the charity fills gaps left by commercial operators by reaching communities that are often difficult to access through standard public transport routes.
The sponsorship agreement will see the Savills brand displayed on two buses within the fleet and will contribute directly to maintaining services across the north Cotswolds throughout 2026.
David Henderson, head of Savills Residential Sales in Stow-on-the-Wold, said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to supporting local communities.
“It is a privilege to support The Villager, which provides such a vital service within our community, and we are really proud to play a part in helping local people stay connected.”
Keith Gowing said the support will make a meaningful difference to the charity’s daily operations.
“I am delighted that Savills has chosen to support The Villager. We started 44 years ago as a direct result of a government report on the causes of depopulation in rural areas, an issue which is still just as relevant today.
“We have grown from one to six minibuses, and our service is hugely valued by the residents of some of our region’s most remote villages.
“As a charity and entirely volunteer-run community service, we are hugely grateful for the support from Savills, which will directly support our day-to-day running costs.”
The Villager currently serves villages surrounding Chipping Norton, Moreton-in-Marsh, Burford and Witney.
In 2004, the service received Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service for providing reliable and economical transport in rural communities.
The charity is also seeking new volunteer drivers to support future operations, while Savills continues to provide property services through six offices across the Cotswolds region.
