Accrington's high street has been dealt a second post-Christmas blow after DIY chain Homebase confirmed it will be closing its store in the town next month.

It is unclear how many jobs will be affected by the closure of the store on Hyndburn Road on February 21.

The announcement comes just days after retailer Marks and Spencer announced the shock closure of the town's Broadway store in May this year after 53 years of trading.

A Homebase spokesman said: "Following a consultation with colleagues, Homebase can confirm that its store in Accrington will close on February 21.

"Discussions are being held with colleagues to find alternative employment in neighbouring Homebase and Argos stores.

“We remain committed to serving the local community, with customers able to visit our neighbouring Homebase store in Clitheroe.”

In October last year Homebase revealed that around a quarter of its 323 outlets would close after a review by parent company Home Retail Group found failings in its sales performance.

Hyndburn council leader Coun Miles Parkinson said he was aware that Homebase had been struggling.

He said: "It has been in the national press that people are apparently doing less DIY these days. It's not just Accrington though; they have closed a Homebase in Preston too.

"Of course it causes deep concern any major business leaving the town.

"Residents are deeply concerned about the closure of M&S and that's why we will be having meetings with the Arndale Centre to see if it can be saved."

Conservative group leader Coun Peter Britcliffe said it was "another huge blow" to Accrington and the town centre.

He said: "I think the council now need to look to see what plans they can come forward with for the town centre.

"We need to have an urgent meeting with the Arndale next week.

"I don't understand the logic of closing the M&S because people from Accrington aren't going to go to Rawtenstall. It seems a nonsense that we don't have an M&S in both places."We all need to get together to try and get something done."