A former retail chief has warned that the UK's town centres are in danger of becoming ghost towns unless urgent action is taken.

The former boss of Wickes, Iceland and Focus DIY, Bill Grimsey told the BBC that time is running out.

Mr Grimsey has launched his second report on the future of our town centres.

He told the BBC: "We must act now. Forget retail for town centres, they need to become community hubs based on health, education, entertainment, leisure and arts and crafts."

His report says facilities such as libraries and digital and health hubs should be part of the attraction to bring people back to town centres, together with housing and some independent shops.

The rise of out of town shopping developments and online sales through giants like Amazon have hit the UK's traditional High Streets with established chains such as Marks & Spencer and House of Fraser announcing store closures.

The British Retail Consortium wants a two-year freeze on business rates increases to support the retail section.

Punchline believes we should give our High Street traders all the support we can - including perhaps a special tax on the likes of Amazon which could then be invested in our struggling High Streets.

What do think? Email Mark@moosemarketingandpr.co.uk