BUSINESS activity in the region rebounded last month, following a brief post-referendum downturn, according to the latest Lloyds Bank purchasing managers’ index survey.

Data for August revealed business output levels increased, thanks to a jump in new-business wins and bumper order books.

Growth came from firms launching new products, marketing initiatives and sales staff working extra hours.

Adam Rainey, regional director for Oxfordshire at Lloyds Bank commercial banking, said: “August’s index shows welcome signs that July’s downturn was temporary.

“All measures of corporate health – output, new orders and employment – returned to above the 50 mark to signal an overall improvement in business conditions.”